Child and family social workers’ experiences of working with parents with intellectual disabilities

Abstract

Purpose – While an increasing number of adults with an intellectual disability are having children, research suggests that they face an increased risk of having their children removed. The purpose of this paper is to explore child and family social workers’ experiences of working with parents with intellectual disability, in order to further our understanding of this issue. Design/methodology/approach – Seven social workers were interviewed. Each had experience of working on safeguarding cases where a parent had a diagnosis of intellectual disability. Data were analyzed using Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis. Findings – Five super-ordinate themes were identified. These were: “feeling torn,” “experiencing a power imbalance,” “hopelessness,” having “pride” in their work’ and experiencing “barriers.” Research limitations/implications – The results are discussed in the context of the increased risk that parents with an intellectual disability face of having their children removed. Several areas for future research are identified. Practical implications – The study highlights several areas for development regarding services for parents with intellectual disability. Originality/value – The study describes some of the difficulties experienced by social workers in this area of their work, from their own perspective. It also strengthens existing ideas about improving services for parents with intellectual disability.