Commentary on “The experiences of Covid-19 ‘lockdown’ for people with a learning disability: results from surveys in Jersey and Guernsey”

Abstract

PurposeThis paper aims to consider the experiences of people with intellectual disabilities in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdown restrictions.Design/methodology/approachThis commentary reflects on the issues raised by Morris et al., and in the wider literature.FindingsAlthough there have been some benefits to lockdown for people with intellectual disabilities, mainly they have experienced isolation, increased mental health and well-being challenges, difficulty in accessing services, support and adequate adapted information.Originality/valueThis commentary argues that it is important to continue to capture the experiences of people with intellectual disabilities now and over time to assess the long-term consequences of the pandemic and to design services which are respondent to their needs.