Author(s): Flynn, E., & Coughlan, B.

Department: Department of Psychology, Brothers of Charity Services, Bawnmore, Limerick.

Keywords: Residential & Community living, de-institutionalisation, intellectual disability, quality of life.

The main emphasis of the present piece of research was to examine quality of life for service users following a move to community based services. The current research was undertaken with nineteen service users who have moved from a large-scale residential facility to a number of community houses within the Organisation. Structured questionnaires including the ABS-RC2 (Adaptive Behaviour Scales) and the ABC (Aberrant Behaviour Checklist) were administered at two intervals (pre- and post-measures). Comparisons were made regarding how service users had experienced this major change in their life circumstances over time. The QOL-Q (Quality of Life Questionnaire) was also administered concurrently with the ABS and ABC measures, in order to explore whether the service user’s quality of life changed due to their integration with the community. Additionally, family members of service users were interviewed using a semi-structured format. We felt it was important to gain their perspective on how their family member is coping with the transition to community living. Staff interviews were also undertaken. In order to fully evaluate the success of the move from institution to community, the views/opinions/feelings of front-line staff are pivotal.