Evaluation of an intellectual disability mental health core competency framework
The Journal of Mental Health Training, Education and Practice
ISSN: 1755-6228
Article publication date: 20 January 2022
Issue publication date: 22 July 2022
Abstract
Purpose
An intellectual disability (ID) mental health core competency framework was developed to articulate the essential attributes the mainstream mental health workforce requires to meet the needs of people with ID. This study aims to evaluate the framework’s impact.
Design/methodology/approach
Mental health clinicians, managers, supervisors and educators completed an online survey at download and 3- and 12-months post-download to evaluate the implementation, utility and impact of the framework.
Findings
The majority of respondents at 3-months (62.9%) and 12-months post-download (59.1%) said the core competencies covered important aspects of their role. At 3-months 47.8% of clinicians were working towards developing the core competencies. Respondents rated their confidence working with people with ID significantly higher at 12-months post-download compared to pre-download (EMM pre = 3.51 vs 12 m = 4.21, p < 0. 001).
Practical implications
The framework was well-received and can be used to underpin education, training and recruitment in ID mental health. The evaluation can also inform the development of similar frameworks.
Originality/value
This is the first evaluation, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, of a core competency framework specifically designed for public mental health professionals from different professional backgrounds working with people with ID.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors thank members of the Project Advisory Group, Ms Bernadette Dagg, Assoc Prof David Dossetor, Dr Tony Florio, Ms Christine Flynn, Dr Roderick McKay and Ms Tania Skippen, for their input and advice throughout the project and Dr Preeyaporn Srasuebkul for her advice on statistical analysis techniques. The funding body did not design the project; collect, analyse or interpret data; or write the manuscript. The NSW Ministry of Health approved the publication for submission with no changes. Funding: This project was funded by MH-Children and Young People, Mental Health Branch, NSW Ministry of Health and the work of the Chair, Intellectual Disability Mental Health, which was supported by core funding from NSW Government Family and Community Services, Ageing, Disability and Home Care and the Mental Health Branch, NSW Ministry of Health.
Citation
Eagleson, C., Weise, J., Cvejic, R.C. and Trollor, J.N. (2022), "Evaluation of an intellectual disability mental health core competency framework", The Journal of Mental Health Training, Education and Practice, Vol. 17 No. 5, pp. 391-407. https://doi.org/10.1108/JMHTEP-05-2021-0051
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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