Developing a Trauma Checklist for People With a Learning Disability Accessing Community Health and Support Services

Abstract

Background

Research suggests people with a learning disability experience high prevalence of adverse life events which may result in trauma-related mental health conditions. Identifying trauma-related mental health conditions can facilitate access to support, however research suggests they may be under-identified in this group. The aim of this study was to develop trauma checklists appropriate for people with a learning disability accessing community health and support services.

Methods

The checklist was developed iteratively during consultation and informed by the Lancaster and Northgate Trauma Scales. Data were collected during interviews and focus groups and analysed using thematic analysis.

Findings

Twenty-eight participants included seven people with a learning disability, two relatives and 19 service providers. Two trauma checklists, each with 13 questions were developed including an accessible self-report and an informant or observer version. Content validity, face validity, utility and acceptability were supported. Three themes were identified including: (i) recognising trauma responses and early identification, (ii) continuity of care and care pathways and (iii) characteristics of the checklists.

Conclusions

The checklists can be used to raise awareness of trauma and support development of trauma care pathways for people with a learning disability accessing community health and support services.