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ERIC Number: EJ1460595
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2025-Mar
Pages: 13
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1354-4187
EISSN: EISSN-1468-3156
Available Date: 2024-10-21
Social Inclusion through Making Neighbourhood Connections: Experiences of Older Adults with Intellectual Disabilities of Local Volunteering and Leisure, Facilitated by Local Connectors
Geraldine Boland1; Anne-Marie Potter2; Eilin Paor1; Suzanne Guerin3
British Journal of Learning Disabilities, v53 n1 p145-157 2025
Background: The social networks of adults with intellectual disabilities are often small and may be limited to family, paid staff and others with disabilities. This study explored the social inclusion of six individuals who joined mainstream leisure clubs or became local volunteers. Method: This qualitative intervention study provided structured support and education to local connectors, existing members of clubs/organisations who provided one-to-one support to new members with intellectual disabilities. After 4 months, qualitative interviews were conducted to explore the experiences of the six participants with disability. Data were analysed using content analysis. Findings: Individuals joining mainstream leisure clubs or volunteering, with natural supporters, creates opportunities for making new acquaintances and expanding social networks. Finding local connectors and opportunities for shared volunteering or leisure activities based on personal goals/interests are key to individuals forming new acquaintances close to where they live. Barriers and facilitators to participation are identified. Conclusions: Adults with intellectual disabilities becoming volunteers or joining mainstream leisure clubs has the potential to lead to enhanced opportunities for social inclusion in their neighbourhoods. Implications for policy and practice are examined. Recommendations for further research are explored. A Valued Social Role Checklist developed from this study offers a tool when sourcing social roles.
Wiley. Available from: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 111 River Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030. Tel: 800-835-6770; e-mail: cs-journals@wiley.com; Web site: https://www-wiley-com.bibliotheek.ehb.be/en-us
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: 1UCD Centre for Disability Studies, School of Psychology, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland; 2KARE Services for Children and Adults with Intellectual Disabilities, Newbridge, County Kildare, Ireland; 3School of Psychology, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland