Social workers’ perceptions and experiences in providing services for adult persons with intellectual disabilities in residential care facilities

Abstract

Background of the study: Limited research is available regarding the support needs of adults with intellectual disabilities in the South African context despite this high-incidence disability. This lack of information highlights the vulnerability of this group and the need for more comprehensive studies and an understanding of their specific support requirements. Social workers are the critical providers of service delivery and support to adult persons with intellectual disabilities in residential care facilities and their families. Many adult persons with intellectual disabilities, supported by their families, are living in communities. Still, adult persons with intellectual disabilities who cannot be managed in a community setting are accommodated in residential care facilities. Aim This research study aimed to develop an in-depth understanding of social workers’ perceptions and experiences in providing services for adult persons with intellectual disabilities in residential care facilities to proffer suggestions for social work practice. Methods: A qualitative research approach was employed, using a phenomenological design supported by an explorative research design. The non-probability purposive sampling technique was used to select participants, and data collection was done through semi-structured interviews, assisted by an interview guide. Data obtained were analysed according to Tesch’s classic systematic data analysis steps (Creswell 2014:196). Data were verified according to Lincoln and Guba’s model (Lietz & Zayas 2010:443). The study complied with the ethical principles of informed consent, anonymity and confidentiality, privacy, not harming participants, and thorough information management. Results: Social workers exhibited diverse perspectives and encountered positive and negative experiences while delivering services to adult persons with intellectual disabilities in residential care facilities. The constructive experiences fostered a sense of fulfilment and accomplishment, enabling effective fulfilment of job-specific expectations. These positive encounters included aspects acknowledged by participants as 'rewarding,' such as successful teamwork and witnessing improvements in persons with intellectual disabilities through social work interventions. vi Conversely, the negative experiences affected the quality of care for adult persons with intellectual disabilities in residential care facilities. These challenges encompassed difficulties locating family members, inadequate financial and resource allocation, and a staff shortage within the residential care facilities. Despite facing adverse experiences, social workers in residential care facilities have developed various positive coping strategies to enhance service delivery. These strategies involve establishing and maintaining solid relationships with management, supervisors, colleagues, and families. Additionally, self-care practices, counselling, and training emerged as effective coping mechanisms, contributing to enhanced and quality care in service delivery. Recommendations for improving service delivery to adult persons with intellectual disabilities in residential care facilities focused on both social workers and management. Suggestions included addressing staff shortages, reviewing social workers' salaries, and implementing specialised training to equip residential staff better. Encouraging social workers to allocate sufficient time for self-care is emphasised to cope positively with the daily challenges encountered during service delivery.