Brand, Fiona; (2022) Understanding experiences of a befriending scheme for people with intellectual disabilities. Doctoral thesis (D.Clin.Psy), UCL (University College London).

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Abstract

Aims: Research into the impact of befriending for people with intellectual disabilities is limited, despite it being fairly well-established practice in the UK. This study aimed to better understand the experiences of individuals involved in a befriending scheme for adults with intellectual disabilities and/or autism, broadly exploring the impact, active ingredients, and any limitations of the scheme. Methods: Participants were recruited from a befriending scheme using convenience sampling. Thirteen individuals with intellectual disabilities and/or autism, one befriender and two family carers were interviewed about their experiences of the befriending scheme. Results: Four main themes were generated using thematic analysis: ‘Something fun for me’, ‘Feeling part of something bigger’, ‘Increasing independence’ and ‘A life less quiet’. The themes revealed that befriending had direct benefits through the activities undertaken and the befriending relationships themselves being fun and reducing isolation. Befriending also facilitated a sense of belonging and access to mainstream activities, and fostered independence by providing safety and support. The importance of shared interests and external support for the relationship was highlighted. Conclusions: Positive outcomes of befriending were found, along with some of the active ingredients that appeared to contribute to these, supporting existing literature and revealing new information from the voices of participants with intellectual disabilities themselves.

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