Responses and needs in a changing situation: staff who work with people with learning disability

Questionnaires were sent to residential care staff working with people with learning disability both in hospital and community settings, to explore any changes resulting from implementation of the policy of care in the community. Information was obtained on the current job situation of staff, their opinions on the effect of the policy of care in the community, their training needs, and perceived job prospects for the future. Findings for staff working in a hospital setting are compared with those of staff working in the community and discussed in the context of changing demands and conditions.