Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 9, 2026

Involving Individuals with Developmental Language Disorder and Their Parents/Carers in Research Priority Setting
Published on: June 6, 2020
Using Individual Service Funds (ISFs) to Improve Access to Self-Directed Support for Adults With Intellectual
Elizabeth Croot1, Alice Dunning1, Andrew Booth1
1Sheffield Centre for Health and Related Research, School of Medicine and Population Health, Sheffield University, Sheffield, UK.
Background:
Individual service funds (ISFs) in England aim to provide self-directed support without the challenge of procuring support and managing a budget. However, few local authorities offer ISFs and some do not offer more choice and control than a council-managed budget.
Methods:
This participatory realist review followed RAMESES publication standards. We developed and refined theories using published and grey literature, expert stakeholders and personal narratives (written and video case studies).
Results:
We identified eight initial programme theories, forming a programme theory explaining how ISFs generate successful outcomes for adults with intellectual disabilities. These included: involvement in support planning; accessible budget information; flexible use of budgets; outcome-focused support planning; 'live' support plans; non-traditional support; positive risk management and trusting relationships.
Conclusion:
Our programme theory elucidates causal pathways for successful ISF outcomes, connecting mechanisms to contextual factors. This guides ISF development and implementation and helps adults with intellectual disabilities make informed decisions about ISFs.
Related Concept Videos
Community Based Intervention
Foundations of Community Mental Health Programs
Central to the success of community-based interventions is the...
Intellectual Disability
Modeling in Therapy
Participant Modeling
Participant modeling involves therapists demonstrating calm and effective behaviors in...
Specialized Care Centers and Settings-II
Rural health centers are specialized care facilities in remote locations with very few medical personnel. The primary care providers who run the centers are mostly Registered Nurse Practitioners. Here, emergency treatment is provided to critically ill or injured patients before they are transferred to the closest hospital. Fortunately, due to advancement in technology, many rural healthcare facilities and professionals have easy access to diagnostic and treatment...
Autism Spectrum Disorder
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
Documentation in Long-Term and Home Healthcare Setting
Long-Term Care Facilities

