Abstract

One claim made for the policy of care in the community was that it would rescue people with intellectual disabilities from social marginality. To what extent has this promise been fulfilled and their lives transformed? David May presents the lives of people from this group as a series of transitions and offers us a view of the world that is as complex and changeable as any other. Each section covers a different aspect of choice, opportunity and transition on the lifepath, for example,

* moving from home to school

* leaving school

* employment

* living independently and

* growing old

The contributors have extensive research experience in the field of intellectual disabilities and provide a comprehensive review of this research, drawing out the implications for policy and practice. This book will be an invaluable resource for professionals and carers working with those with intellectual disabilities, as well as their families.

This well-presented book is very readable, with good discussions on the range of issues associated with enabling intellectually disabled people to lead fulfilling lives, with access to opportunities taken for granted by the general population. There is good reflection on the changes in attitudes towards this group of people over the past 20 years... The book is a worthy addition to the department bookshelf and a useful source of inspiration to readers.
British Journal of Occupational Therapy
This book examines the claims made by the advocates of the policy of care in the community that it would enable people with intellectual disabilities to join mainstream society. David May has done an excellent job in drawing together a number of people who have carried out recent and relevant research into the life course of people with intellectual disabilities. The book should be required reading for all those who currently work, and intend to work with, children and adults with intellectual disabilities. It provides an easily digested account of the life course of people with intellectual disabilities.
British Journal of Social Work
David May brings together the work of several British universities under the direction of Professor Joyce Lishman. The premise is that with the closure of long-stay hospitals, people with intellectual disabilities should have more opportunity to experience the same life change as others... Worth purchasing alone for its insight into carers' issues, it also brings together many complex issues and areas of ideological change. While we have come a long way, there is still a great deal to done, particularly in co-ordinating multi-agency service plans.
Rostrum
A useful contribution to literature of learning difficulties. It draws together a range of issues concerning transition and change in the lifecourse and provides an accessible overview of recent research in this field. it would therefore be of general interest, as an introductory text, to those working with people with learning difficulties in a variety of health, social and community settings.
Community Care
This book is number 38 in the research highlights in Social Work series, however it would be of immense value to professional staff in any learning disability service, whether it be health, social services, education or the voluntary sector. It covers both children and adults. It is primarily an academic textbook, but it is an easier read than many. Hence it could also be selectively recommended to non-professional staff and carers. The book has wide application but would be particularly useful for those engaged in future study, research, training or service management provision and development.
Royal College of Speech & Language Therapy Bulletin
An interesting and highly informative book, not only for portraying pros and cons integral to transition stages throughout life but, more importantly, including the insights of people with intellectual disabilities into aspects of their lives.
International Journal of Disability, Development and Education