King's College London

Background: Little has been published regarding the views of family members of people with intellectual disabilities who are being cared for in out-of-area psychiatric hospitals. This study explores this area with specific reference to whether culturally appropriate services were being provided.

Materials and Methods: Sixteen family members were interviewed about their views on the care their relative or partner was receiving in an out-of-area hospital. Transcripts were then analysed by the study team and themes identified.

Results: Families expressed a wide range of views regarding out-of-area hospital care. Important themes identified were feelings of shame, concerns about safety, cultural needs not being met, lack of improvement and lack of involvement in care.

Conclusions: This study highlights areas of inpatient care that family members felt were important. Views on negative aspects of care should guide areas for quality improvement initiatives for inpatient services.