Specialist Mental Health Services for People with Intellectual Disabilities in Singapore - What Do Stakeholders Think of Them and How Do They Relate to Service Accomplishments?

Abstract

ABSTRACT Introduction This research investigated the views of different stakeholders regarding the specialist mental health service for people with intellectual disabilities (ID) in Singapore. Method Interviews were conducted with mental health professionals, family carers and service users with ID. Framework analysis was adopted to identify common dominant themes among the different participant groups. Results Analysis revealed four themes 1) Giving choice and autonomy; 2) Training to become competent; 3) Respect and 4) Part of the community Conclusions People with ID living in Singapore have limited opportunities to express their choices and autonomy especially when it comes to treatment planning. Family carers have a significant influence on the level of community presence of their relatives with ID. Participants identified employment for people with ID as a way to improve public perceptions. There was no mention of people with ID developing social relationships. Recommendations are discussed in the context of current service provision.