Tuning in to young people with intellectual disability: Respectful vocational services

Abstract

In 2000 the New Zealand Government's Ministry of Health conducted a formal review of vocational services for people with disabilities that highlighted a number of shortcomings. Subsequently a “clean sheet” approach by the Office for Disability Issues to offer vocational services that provided greater choice and control was called for. These directives motivated the organisation that is the focus of this study to develop a specifically youth-focused service for young people with intellectual disabilities. To preserve anonymity, the organisation has been given the name “Directions” in this article. This research explored the perceptions of young people with intellectual disabilities who were aligned with Directions and the perceptions of the staff who supported them. Interviews with participants were conducted and thematically analysed to identify key components of this new approach and any success factors contributing to a more responsive youth culture. Participants articulated factors that aligned with findings from research in regular youth-based services. These findings have the potential to provide a touchstone for future practice when supporting young people with intellectual disabilities.