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N.Ireland - Know the Challenges

It is generally agreed that it is important to ensure that the process of developing appropriate adult services is well-planned and carefully managed and brings together all the people who have an interest in the individual. However, this can be a complex process, particularly for people with challenging needs. There are many reasons for this, and the table below shows some of the most common difficulties you may face – with some of the keys to tackling each issue set out alongside.

The "problem"	The solution

A "fit the person into what's available" approach rather than a person-centred approach. You may still encounter people who take this approach, which can be seen as an "easier" option.	BUT - this should be challenged: there are many examples where a person-centred approach has proved to result in an improved quality of life for individuals with complex needs.

Lack of appropriate choice of existing housing opportunities	BUT - there are a number of organisations who can advise on a range of housing opportunities. Contact the Northern Ireland Housing Executive www.nihe.gov.uk or telephone (0844) 8920 900

Lack of adequate support to access mainstream Further Education opportunities	BUT - people with disabilities have the same rights as everyone else to progress in education and SENDO NI is committed to the accessibility to education for all young people. A good starting point is the Department of Education and Learning; www.delni.gov.uk or contact Rathgael House (028) 9127 9279

Lack of appropriate daytime opportunities	BUT - by using individualised budgets and direct payments, people can be supported to access community facilities and employment. See section 'Understanding the Funding'.

Lack of appropriate choice of care support opportunities	BUT - there are a number of ways to address this: many care provider organisations will work with you to find flexible and person-centred solutions, or you can employ your own staff team, either directly or through support brokerage. See section 'Understanding the Funding'.

Out of area placements

If an individual has been identified as displaying challenging behaviour, it is likely that he/she will have difficulty accessing many local community services without significant support and/ adaptations to the service. Many local authorities have traditionally responded to this by purchasing “out of area” specialist places. These are places that can meet the individual’s needs but may be a long way from the family home. The implications of this strategy can be significant:

It can have a detrimental effect on the individual and family in terms of family contact and involvement.
It can result in the failure to develop local expertise and inclusive services and support.
Research has shown that children placed out of area are more likely to move to adult services out of area.

There are now many opportunities for people with severe learning disabilities and challenging behaviour to be well-supported and have a good quality of life within their local community via a person-centred approach.

Your local authority should be adopting a person-centred approach and should therefore be prepared to develop a specialist local service or support package to meet your child’s needs. If all you are offered is an out of area placement, you should be prepared to challenge this.