Ethical frameworks to support parents With a learning disability in social care and social work

Summary: A significant proportion of parents in the UK with a learning disability have their children removed, with many young people subsequently living away from home in formal care. This raises numerous ethical questions for social work, not least relating to the moral tension between requirements to maintain the rights of parents with a disability whilst also protecting children who are vulnerable. This article looks at the findings of interviews undertaken with professional social care employees in the Northwest England. It seeks to consider their responsibilities and experiences in their work with parents with a learning disability. 

Findings: Following interviewing with 14 participants, we detail findings in relation to three core themes explored: including communication challenges; limited knowledge and training; and formal procedures followed by professionals alongside their engagement with the courts. 

Application: Among other findings, we illustrate many challenges which parents with a disability and social workers face. The article also appraises the viability of bioethics and rights-based ethical frameworks in work with parents with a disability. Whilst offering potential, both these approaches are not without challenges.