Training to improve quality of life, activity and participation in children with intense and complex support needs.

Abstract

Children with multiple and severe disabilities have intense and complex support needs. They are often in special institutions with hardly any education, leading a passive and secluded life. To improve their quality of life, activities and inclusion, particularly inclusive education, we developed and experimented, within the framework of a European project “Enablin+,” an interprofessional in-service training. During 2015-17, we organized 64 pilot courses and training workshops on 41 topics in eight European countries, followed by a train-the-trainers course. Based on a qualitative evaluation of the participants, we can recommend: next to training profession-specific skills, an in-service training should aim at raising awareness that inclusion is feasible and necessary, also for children who are totally dependent. All hierarchical staff levels, from managers to daily caregivers should be involved. While rooted in modern conceptual frameworks of disability (inclusion, quality of life, rights, capabilities), such training should offer true interprofessional, case-based learning, person- & family centred “case management,” reflective learning about belief systems and practices regarding inclusive activities and participation. Course formats need to be adapted to local circumstances in order to lower the threshold to permit all staff members to participate.