Ann Richardson and Jane Ritchie
'essential reading for all those who have responsibility for the development and well-being of mentally handicapped adults and their families' Health Service Journal
Current policies for community care mean that there is growing emphasis on encouraging people with learning difficulties to live independently. Little research attention has been given to their needs for friendship and support and ways of increasing the support available. This study is intended to fill this gap, examining these issues in the light of discussions with people with learning difficulties themselves and with those active in providing help to increase and deepen their support. A number of suggestions for policy and practice are offered. The research was funded by the Joseph Rowntree Memorial Trust.
1989 ISBN 0 95374 377 0
Contents:
Introducing the issues: the meanings of friendship
People with learning difficulties and their friends
Initiatives and practices which foster friendships
Conclusions and implications for policy and practice
Appendix 2 Schemes and initiatives studied
Appendix 3 Developing friendships: workshop participants