What are the experiences of professionals working with parents with learning disabilities? A meta-ethnography

Abstract

Purpose It has been recommended that social, health and other relevant professionals work collaboratively to support parents with learning disabilities (LD) and their children. A number of qualitative studies have investigated the experiences of professionals who work with parents with LD. A synthesis of these experiences has not as yet been produced, and therefore, the purpose of this paper is to review how professionals experience working with parents with LD to inform practice guidelines on how parents with LD can be supported most effectively. Design/methodology/approach A systematic search took place using five databases and 15 peer-reviewed papers were identified based on the relevant inclusion and exclusion criteria. The quality of each included paper was systematically evaluated. Meta-ethnography was used to synthesise the qualitative data from the identified studies. Findings The synthesis offered six themes: concerns about knowledge and experience, the importance of and difficulties with available support, the importance of and challenges with liaison with and between professionals, differences in power, conflicting priorities – parents or children?, the personal impact on professionals. Originality/value The results are discussed in the context of previous research. Recommendations for future research and practice innovation are made.