Working towards a “good life”: applications of a Good Lives Model of care in forensic learning disability services

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to incorporate the Good Lives Model (GLM) into the pathway for an adult low secure learning disability service and the community forensic team with an adapted approach. The GLM is a strengths-based, holistic approach to offender treatment, developed by Tony Ward (Ward and Fortuneview, 2013). The GLM proposes that individuals commit offences in the pursuit of specific goals (primary human goods). By working with patients on developing new skills to meet these goods, the aim is that offending behaviour can be reduced. Design/methodology/approach To incorporate this into the whole service pathway and to meet the needs of adults with a learning disability, the original goods were condensed into four, to support patient engagement and understanding. The use of the Good Lives Model is an exciting and progressive approach to supporting adults with a learning disability, through treatment and back into the community and beyond. Findings This has been effectively implemented, as standard practice, in this study’s inpatient service with the community forensic team currently interweaving into their processes. Feedback has been largely positive, with colleagues praising the clear structure which supports collaborative multi-disciplinary team, and patient working. Patients have said that it helps them to think about what they want. They feel like they have a voice in their care as well as looking towards the future. Practical implications This study supports the adaptation of the Good Lives Model into learning disability services. Originality/value This is a unique approach to using the Good Lives Model as a whole service pathway, in collaboration with patients with learning disabilities.