The Use of Restrictive Measures in Community Services for People With Intellectual Disabilities in Sweden. Issue 2 (3rd November 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Björne, Petra; Deveau, Roy; McGill, Peter; Nylander, Lena
• Is Part Of: Journal of policy and practice in intellectual disabilities. Volume 19:Issue 2(2022)
• Page Start: 193
• Page End: 201
• Publication Date: 2021-11-03
• Subjects: community services -- intellectual disabilities -- policy -- practice -- restrictive measures -- staff; Mental retardation -- Periodicals; People with mental disabilities -- Services for -- Periodicals; Developmental disabilities -- Periodicals; Learning disabilities -- Periodicals; 362.205
• DOI: 10.1111/jppi.12399
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1741-1122

Abstract

Abstract: Background: Community services for Swedish people with intellectual disability (ID) are intended to support self‐determination and integrity. Legislation does not allow the use of restrictive or coercive measures. Aim: The aim of this study is to identify the extent of, rationale for, and strategies staff believe would reduce the use of restrictive measures in group homes and daily activities services for people with ID. Method: A survey was sent to all staff in group homes and daily activities in one large Swedish municipality. The survey comprised four Likert style questions and one free text question, addressing the type of and reasons for restrictive measures, and how much staff value their replacement. A total of 250 surveys were completed. Results: A third of staff reported that some restrictive measures were used daily or weekly, primarily to protect and support service users. Adequate numbers of staff, better service design, and training were considered necessary for change. Conclusion: Staff report structural reasons, such as staffing, resources time, lack of training, and supervision for using restrictive measures. Staff see reducing the use of restrictive measures as requiring structural changes with engagement from the whole organization.