It can still happen here: systemic risk factors that may contribute to the continued abuse of people with intellectual disabilities

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to reflect on the response to the scandal of abuse in services for people with intellectual disabilities in the light of research evidence and analysis.

Design/methodology/approach

– Critical reflection and review of literature. In particular, recent research into possible indicators that a service is at risk of becoming abusive is used to test the hypotheses and implied solutions that are currently being adopted.

Findings

– That some of the responses to recent scandals are necessary but not sufficient to prevent future harm. Furthermore, some of the proposed solutions may actually increase the likelihood of further abuse. Prevention of abuse requires a broader and more evidence-based response.

Originality/value

– The synthesis of research and analysis presented here has not been presented previously in the published literature.