CLP Research

CLP has undertaken extensive research about supported accommodation options for people with intellectual disability both in Australia and overseas. There is clear evidence that this is most successful when the following conditions are met:

• Choice – "one size does not fit all" and families need the opportunity to choose the type of accommodation most suited to the needs of their loved one.  CLP supports the choices which its family members would like to make and is lobbying government to make a range of viable options available in the ACT.
• Quality of care provided – with over 97% of the group still living at home with their immediate family, the expertise needed to care for them into the future must be developed now.  Training and employment options must be developed to ensure a skilled and responsive workforce is available.
• Social activity and inclusion – access to friends and family, being a contributing member of a community of choice, rather than just being “present” in a community setting are important to the emotional and social well-being of the individual.
• Person-centred planning – employment options (whether paid or unpaid), social activities, accommodation and levels of care should fit the individual rather than making the person with disability fit within existing service structures.  This method produces the best long-term outcomes for people with disability and their families.
• Medical and dental care – many adults with a moderate to severe intellectual disability suffer from preventable illnesses, treatable pain and are dying prematurely. Routine, preventative and specialist health care services are needed. (In Sickness and in Health, 2008)

Reports about CLP’s research have been compiled with the voluntary efforts of CLP members and supporters. To view all CLP publications click here.

Future Research

While extensive research has already been undertaken, there is more work to be done. The following major areas have been identified for future research:

• Comparative study of disability and aged care arrangements
• Identification of  the specific care needs and levels of care of the CLP target group of clients in the ACT to determine the services that will need to be provided
• Statistical Research about the group including health risks and ageing issues
• Examination of alternative models of care

CLP are currently raising funds to conduct a feasibility study about CLP’s concept of an urban village for people with an intellectual disability.  CLP has received some funding from government and community groups to undertake the work – all on the condition that matching funding is provided by CLP.  CLP is currently attempting to raise the matching funding.

For further information contact us.