The impact of staff training on the knowledge of support staff in relation to bereavement and people with an intellectual disability

This study aimed to investigate whether a 1-day training course improved support staff knowledge about bereavement and grief in people with a learning disability. A questionnaire based, mixed design was used. Forty-eight participants were randomly assigned to one of two equal groups. A staggered design allowed for group 2 to act both as a control group and to receive training. Within- and between-group comparisons were made. Training significantly improved staff knowledge in all the areas measured. An analysis of staff knowledge at 1 month after training was not possible due to a low response rate. A short training course was successful in significantly increasing the knowledge of paid carers about issues relating to bereavement for people with a learning disability. The clinical and ethical implications of the study are discussed along with limitations and suggestions for further research.