Journal of Learning Disabilities and Offending Behaviour

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to describe a study which investigated the diverse needs of multiple stakeholders in an adapted sex offender treatment programme (ASOTP) and then evaluated a pilot programme set up to respond to the identified needs efficiently and effectively. The paper reports on an innovative approach to delivering ASOTP in secure learning disability services. It aims to address many of the criticisms and concerns of conventional closed format programmes, particular in the climate of value for money and payment by results.

Design/methodology/approach – The multiple views of stakeholders were identified by means of questionnaires and semi-structured interviews in order to ascertain the key issues necessitating change. Stakeholders included purchasers of Partnerships in Care Learning Disability Services (PiC LDS), referred clients, internal and external clinicians involved in their care, group facilitators and, in some cases, clients' families or advocates. A rolling format ASOTP (based on the content of the Prison and Probation Service ASOTP) was designed and piloted to address highlighted needs, including time frames for the commencement and completion of treatment.

Findings – Initial feedback obtained by means of structured interviews and discussions with all stakeholders has been positive. In particular, participants have shown an increase in motivation, knowledge, and, unexpectedly, enhanced levels of risk disclosure. Facilitators have reported increased satisfaction and decreased stress levels. These findings are tentative in light of the small numbers involved and the absence of a randomised control trial.

Research limitations/implications – This study has a number of implications for future research in terms of improving treatment effectiveness by means of increasing knowledge retention and enhancing risk disclosure, as well as a reduction in facilitator burnout.

Originality/value – The programme was tailored to respond to individual treatment needs within a group setting whilst ensuring programme integrity and effective risk management within a forensic learning disability service.