Community services and transforming care: reflections and considerations

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to consider the existing evidence base regarding community services for people with learning disabilities in the context of transforming care (TC). Design/methodology/approach Reflections and commentary on the provision of community services for people with learning disabilities following Washington et al.’s article on admissions and discharges from assessment and treatment units in England. Findings The existing evidence base pertaining to community learning disability teams in the UK is dated, sparse and methodologically weak. A greater focus on researching community services for people with learning disabilities is needed in order to inform best practice guidelines. Originality/value The success of the TC agenda is contingent on the provision of high quality community services. However, the focus has been on discharging individuals from hospital, rather than the support available to them once they leave.