ABSTRACTChanges in skill acquisition and problem behaviour, contingent upon the introduction of a new community‐based service, were compared for subjects in three different residential settings: supported accommodation; hospital; and private family homes. Results over a 5‐year period indicate links between service contact and increases in skill level, together with an increase in problem behaviour for subjects who moved from hospital to supported accommodation. The interpretation of client income in the context of service process is discus