Commentary on “The Ealing Intensive Therapeutic and Short Breaks Service: an update five years on”

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to consider the needs of children and young people with an intellectual disability and behaviours described as challenging in light of the article “The Ealing Intensive Therapeutic and Short Breaks service: An Update Five Years On”. Design/methodology/approach: Contemporary literature associated with the provision of support to children and young people with an intellectual disability and behaviours described as challenging is considered. Some of the recent challenges associated with the provision of effective and timely support in light of current research, policy and practice are highlighted. Findings: The Ealing service’s continued success is discussed within the context of new ways of working required to meet the needs of the client group and their families/carers. Originality/value: The commentary reinforces the need to evolve service models that can provide specialist, timely and intensive support. The importance of early intervention is highlighted.