ABSTRACT
This chapter begins with a consideration of memory work as a person-centred approach, provides ideas for improving communication with people with learning disabilities (with a particular focus on people experiencing symptoms of dementia), and then looks at questions that may arise in managing problematic behaviour in group sessions. There are also some general guidelines on good practice aimed at group leaders, which, if implemented, should ensure that participants get the best possible experience from memory sharing in groups. The chapter ensures that practitioners are well-equipped to fulfil the requirements of high quality work so that the needs of clients are effectively met. There is no evidence that dementia has a different effect on people with learning disabilities than it does on other people. Tears are just as acceptable as laughter in memory work, and staff involved in running a group need to feel comfortable in managing a range of emotional reactions.
