Identifying needs-based groupings among people accessing intellectual disability services

There is increasing emphasis on needs-led service-provision for people with intellectual disability (ID). This study outlines the statistical cluster analysis of clinical data from 1692 individuals accessing UK secondary care ID services. Using objective needs assessment data from a newly developed ID assessment tool, six clusters were identified. These had clinical face validity and were validated using six concurrently (but independently) rated tools. In keeping with previous studies, the clusters varied in terms of overall level of need as well as specific clinical features (autism spectrum disorder, mental health problems, challenging behaviors and physical health conditions). More work is now needed to further develop these clusters and explore their utility for planning, commissioning and optimizing needs-led services.