The Experiences of COVID-19 for People with ID and their Supporters
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The Experiences of the COVID-19 Pandemic for People with Intellectual Disabilities living in Berkshire and their Relatives, Carers and Professionals in Health and Social Care Services.
IRAS ID
286053
Contact name
Jon Codd
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Berkshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 0 months, 2 days
Research summary
The COVID-19 Pandemic has had a significant impact on our lives. People with intellectual disabilities (ID) are a particularly important group to consider at this time. Historically there has been a lack of research exploring the experiences and needs of people with ID and their relatives and carers. People with ID are often vulnerable adults and at increased risk of abuse and exploitation, they experience greater health inequalities, they are more likely to have other physical health and mental health comorbidities, and they are more likely to behave in ways which may be challenging for others including self-injury, physical aggression and damage to property. Some of the issues faced by people with ID often have a significant impact on their support systems including family, carers and health and social care professionals. Some of these issues and concerns may be exacerbated during the COVID-19 Pandemic. People with ID are considered higher risk/vulnerability for catching the virus. They may not understand about the rules and guidance such as social distancing, hand washing and staying at home. They may not accept and adjust to changes such as no clubs/activities/work/education etc. They may struggle to access other methods of support such as telephone/video/internet due to difficulties with understanding and communication. The research question is: What are the experiences of people with ID and their relatives, carers, GP’s and other health and social care professionals working with them during the COVID-19 pandemic? For relatives, carers, GP’s and other health and social care professionals, the follow up aim is to explore how their experiences has impacted their role in caring/supporting the person/people with ID. The aim is to conduct short video interviews (up to 5-15 minute) and focus groups (20-60 mins) with participants (3-4 participants in each group), transcribe interviews verbatim and analyse using thematic analysis.
REC name
West Midlands - Coventry & Warwickshire Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
21/WM/0234
Date of REC Opinion
4 Nov 2021
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion