Planning and Support for People with Intellectual Disabilities: Issues for Case Managers and Other Professionals

Planning and Support for People with Intellectual Disabilities: Issues for Case Managers and Other Professionals
Edited by Christine Bigby, Chris Fyffe & Elizabeth Ozanne,
Jessica Kingsley Publishers,
ISBN 9781843103547,
£22.99

Star rating: 4/5

Case management is the co-ordination of services and systems that best meet an individual’s need. Putting that role into practice is the focus of this book, writes Julian Budden.

Each chapter deals with issues faced by case managers here and abroad. Practical, down-to-earth advice will guide you through the challenges the role presents which is helped by taking us right back to basics. Who are the people in need of this support, why this is the best approach and why, on occasion, it fails.

Issues affecting individuals are highlighted in a series of case studies although these are little more than sets of straight descriptions. Reading them leaves a feeling of looking at problems not people.

This is not the only shortcoming with a book that tells us how we can help people there is little space given to the views and opinions of people whose cases are being managed and the writing style used can seem a little formal at times – especially for those not as academically minded as some of the authors.

By looking at many of the issues facing care managers the book will appeal to new and experienced practitioners alike. Readers will find information here that offers an insight into problems and different ways of resolving the issue.

Julian Budden is a day centre manager, learning disability service, Trafford Council