Advances for future working following an online dramatherapy group for adults with intellectual disabilities and mental ill health during the COVID-19 pandemic: A service evaluation for Cumbria, Northumberland Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust.

Background: During the COVID-19 pandemic, social distancing measures were enforced and the national lockdown underlined our reliance on virtual means as a way to communicate. This new way of interacting highlighted that people with an intellectual disability were a large proportion of a digitally excluded population. Methods: A service evaluation, using a mixed method design in the form of four self-reported outcome measures and qualitative feedback. Findings: Clinical services need to continue when face to face sessions are not possible. Remote groups can be an alternative option not only when self-isolating due to pandemics but when living in remote locations, having physical health problems or excessive expenses and travel costs. Conclusions: Online dramatherapy groups can be a beneficial alternative when face to face groups are not possible or challenging to attend due to access difficulties. Online groups can offer opportunities to meet with peers, build relationships, improve confidence and learn new skills in technology.