Evaluation of an education programme designed to suggest possible changes to leisure day service provision

Abstract

This article describes an evaluation study, the focus of which is the Changeover Foundation programme (Scottish Human Services I995). This programme was designed to critically examine, evaluate and to suggest changes to leisure day service provision for people with a learning disability at two social service managed facilities. Participants of the programme came from a variety of backgrounds and included day service managers, staff, volunteers, carers, service users and representatives of other statutory service providers. Evaluation methods included conducting focused group interviews (n = 2) and individual interviews with course participants (n = I0). The findings give a generally positive evaluation. A major strength of the programme was that of bringing together a diverse group of people that included service users to undertake critical appraisal of day care leisure services. Many of the positive aspects of the programme centred on the development of meaningful group interactions and relationships. Problems identified mainly related to the course manual. It was seen as too complex especially by service users and needed to be supported by other educational materials such as video or audio-tapes. Suggestions for changes to services were also identified. Limitations of the study are discussed. The problems of including those with a learning disability in this type of project are identified and suggestions to how it may have been better approached are given.