Abstract

Background This study explores the perceptions of a group of adults with intellectual disability regarding direct support staff.
Method Semi-structured interviews relating to experiences of direct support staff were developed from two focus
groups. These interviews were conducted with 11 adults with intellectual disability residing within a forensic inpatient
service.
Results Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) revealed two superordinate themes; namely, staff relationship
factors and positive and negative attributes of staff. The participants valued relationships with staff based on
qualities such as honesty, trust, and a caring, nurturing manner that enabled individuals to feel safe. Staff characteristics
such as immaturity, inexperience, and a short temper appeared to lead to feelings of discontentment amongst the
participants.
Conclusions The implications of the findings are discussed in relation to clinical practice, staff recruitment, and training.