A brief report on the Wolverhamptom Intensive Support Service (ISS): a retrospective and prospective summary

Abstract

How managers of services respond to meeting the needs of people with learning disabilities who present with challenging behaviours is extremely problematic. This paper outlines the activities of an Intensive Support Service (ISS) for people with learning disabilities who either present significant challenges for the individual concerned and/or their carers, or whose behaviour threatens their continued access to services. This brief report traces this service from its initial development through to plans for its future. Also described are the underlying philosophy, demographic detail of caseload and the process used by the ISS. An important theme identified throughout this paper is the concept of a 'support' service, working as an integral part of existing services rather than operating as a separate entity.