bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Real Challenges in Valuing People
Authors: Greig Rob
Published: August 2011

In this article the author, who acted as an advisor to the Department of Health on the creation of the recent Learning Disability White Paper, gives his personal views on the challenges of implementation
Primary Care Groups and Trusts: Organisational Development Progress and Prospects ‐ Two Years on
Authors: Waddington Paul , Filby Mike
Published: August 2011

This article reports on the fourth in a series of annual Pavilion conferences, charting the gritty texture of real‐time organisational development set against the formal policy agenda. Those engaged in PCT development will find the messages instructive and reassuring.
Care Standards Act 2000: (1) Raising Standards in Residential and Nursing Home Care
Authors: Dow John
Published: August 2011

This article looks at the new legal framework for the regulation of residential and nursing home care. It focuses on the changes to the law, regulations and guidance and examines critically whether these changes are likely to lead to higher standards.
Current and Future Challenges in Commissioning Care Services for Older People: Case Study of West Sussex
Authors: Griffiths Marianne
Published: August 2011

This article examines the sources of the serious instability of the social care services market in one British county. It suggests that the future sustainability of the market will not only be costly to achieve, but also require new approaches in all sectors.
Managing a Dual Role: Working Carers in Social Services
Authors: McFarlane Linda
Published: August 2011

The article addresses the issue of working carers in social services ‐ employees who have caring responsibilities for adults outside work. Where employers fail to support carers, costs can be high. Ways of developing carer‐friendly policies are considered
Best Value Case Study: Commissioning Research on the Views of Older Service Users
Authors: Durand Mary , Jowett Sandra
Published: August 2011

This is a case study of the contribution of independent researchers employed to obtain feedback on performance in home care services for a Best Value exercise in Luton. The authors report their findings and then speculate on how local authorities might enhance the process to achieve more informed consultation with service users.
Care Direct — What is it and How is it being Developed?
Authors: Searle Paul
Published: August 2011

The Government last year announced the development of the Care Direct service for older people, a one‐stop shop gateway to information and help. This article describes how plans are progressing to pilot the new initiative in Devon, which is one of six pilot sites.
Evidence‐Based Care: Developing the Discussion
Authors: Beresford Peter
Published: August 2011

The aim of this article is to take forward the helpful discussion of ‘What works in community care’ offered by Janet Lewis (2001). Her focus was on ‘evidence‐based approaches to practice’. Mine here is on trying to work out how to take forward her proposals for social care practice specifically, and social policy practice more generally.
Policy and Practice in Mental Health Promotion in England: An Overview
Authors: Coombes Lindsey , Coffey Jane , Bartlett Helen
Published: August 2011

The importance of mental health promotion is increasingly being recognised as a policy issue in the UK, although little is known yet about progress towards implementing mental health promotion approaches within mental health services. This paper presents an overview of the topic, and reports on a survey of local authorities in England to identify examples of good practice in mental health promotion and the extent to which they are underpinned by evidence.
Hearing What Users Say: The Importance of Training for High Quality Management in Dementia Care
Authors: Parker Jonathan , Penhale Bridget , Manthorpe Jill , Bradley Greta
Published: August 2011

This paper explores the importance of seeking the views of service users with dementia. This is fundamental to raising quality standards in the management of dementia care, and demands commitment to on‐going high quality training for social care staff. Contemporary research and policy developments are debated in this context.
Care Standards Act 2000: (2) Domiciliary Care and Other Services
Authors: Dow John
Published: August 2011

The National Care Standards Commission will regulate standards of domiciliary care for the first time. This article looks at the provisions of the Care Standards Act relating to domiciliary care and considers some of the issues which will arise when developing national minimum standards. It also looks at other care services regulated by the NCSC and other bodies established by the Care Standards Act.
Can Policy Making be Evidence‐Based?
Authors: Six Perri
Published: August 2011

Ministers are always calling for more evidence‐based interventions. Do they apply the same criterion to their own work of making policy? Perhaps surprisingly, policy making is not an evidence‐free zone. However, it is important to understand the ways in which policy makers in different situations will use information differently, count different kinds of information as evidence, and so exercise different styles of judgment.
The Contribution of Research Findings to Practice Change
Authors: Lewis Janet
Published: August 2011

Developing the argument first put in an MCC article in 2001, the author discusses the relationship between knowledge and practice, and puts the case for ‘knowledge‐based change’.
What is ‘Knowledge’ in Social Care?
Authors: Edwards Amanda
Published: August 2011

This article reports on issues arising from consultations with key stakeholders about the way the new Social Care Institute for Excellence should undertake its work. It proposes a new, ‘inclusive’ approach to knowledge in social care.
Introducing the Social Care Institute for Excellence (SCIE)
Authors: Brand Don
Published: August 2011

This article considers SCIE's origins, role and functions, and how its work relates to that of other organisations, including the new framework of regulatory bodies in social care. It underlines the importance of user‐participation in all aspects of SCIE's work.
(1) From ‘Child Care’ to ‘Adult Care’
Authors: Dow John
Published: August 2011

This article looks at the division between child care and adult care services. It considers aspects of the legal framework which are different for adults and children and asks what changes could be made to improve co‐ordination between agencies. Are there lessons that can be learnt by adult services from children's services and vice versa?
Transitional Residential Rehabilitation: What Helps to Make it Work?
Authors: Lymbery Mark
Published: August 2011

This paper presents the findings from the first stages of qualitative research into the provision of transitional residential rehabilitation in Nottinghamshire. Its purpose is to identify several ‘critical success factors’ that appear to underpin effective practice.
The Road to Integration in Hertfordshire
Authors: Pickup Sarah , Clark Paul
Published: August 2011

The authors describe the rationale for changes in the structure of service configurations in Hertfordshire, based on the goal of simplifying access by the public. The article explains how they have been put into practice. The integrated approach includes an innovative Department for Children, Schools and Families, as well as new health and social care services for adults.
The Sandwell Partnership
Authors: Martin Dave
Published: August 2011

A key player in the Sandwell partnership gives his account of achievements over recent years, and reflects on the practicalities of the Government's continuing drive for integration and democratic renewal.
Evaluation of the Integration of Health and Social Services in Somerset: Part I — Final Results
Authors: Gulliver Pauline , Peck Edward , Towell David
Published: August 2011

In April 1999, Somerset Health Authority and Somerset County Council launched the first fully integrated mental health service in England. The authors have evaluated this innovation and have already reported on progress on two occasions in this journal. This article gives data and conclusions for the final stage. In the next issue of MCC themes which will be important to the pursuance of integration in other localities will be drawn from the results presented and discussed in light of the available literature.
The Single Assessment Process
Authors: Ormiston Hester
Published: August 2011

This article aims to assist people responsible for revising local approaches to community care assessment in line with government requirements as detailed in the NSF for Older People. It analyses key elements and suggests approaches to be adopted, some of which are based on workshops with local stakeholders from a number of authorities.
Integration: The Occupational Therapy Experience
Authors: Mountain Gail
Published: August 2011

This paper raises the debate about integration of services, drawing on the experience of the occupational therapy profession. This is followed by a review of the roles and responsibilities of all staff within the integration agenda.
Seen and Heard: Using Research Findings to Develop Services
Authors: Fanshawe Peter
Published: August 2011

The paper describes how children's services in Wiltshire have been involved in research (in collaboration with Barnardo's) and have attempted to make research findings count in the development of services.
Who Cares? Examining the Health and Social Care Workforce
Authors: Genkeer Leena , Finlayson Belinda , Edmans Teresa , Gough Pippa
Published: August 2011

Addressing recruitment and retention problems in the health and social care workforce is now a key priority. However, there are shortages in some key staff groups, for example, nursing and social workers. Efforts to address these problems have focused primarily on boosting staff numbers, but in order really to address these issues for the long term, we need to think more radically about how the health and social care workforce is configured.
The Home Care Workforce: Urgent Attention Required
Authors: McClimont Bill
Published: August 2011

The paper describes the size, nature and trends in home care, including telemedicine and hospital at home, emphasising the independent sector's contribution and highlighting the importance of home care to health and social care. It identifies a funding and capacity crisis, outlines the likely impact of any further reduction and explores contributory recruitment, training and commissioning practice issues.
Promoting Patient and Public Involvement in Primary Health Care: Part 2 ‐ Local Case Study
Authors: Tee Stephen
Published: August 2011

Primary care groups (PCGs) and primary care trusts (PCTs) are required to ensure that patient and public involvement underpins all activity. In Part 1, the literature review revealed many challenges to implementing this important measure of performance that would test those with responsibility for achieving a meaningful outcome for all stakeholders. Part 2 reports on a local study that used qualitative data from key stakeholders to examine how one PCG was responding to the involvement agenda. The findings revealed cynicism and doubt among board members about the purpose and value of involvement, despite which some progress had been made in engaging with local voluntary groups. However, the experience of involvement among local patients had not always been a positive one. It is suggested that issues of power and organisational culture will need to be tackled through greater investment in clinical and managerial staff development.
Working in Partnership with Users in Primary Care: Sharing a Diagnosis of Dementia
Authors: Milne Alisoun , Wilkinson Heather
Published: August 2011

This paper presents the findings of two research projects focusing on sharing a diagnosis of dementia. The first paper analyses the attitudes of GPs towards early diagnosis and the second explores the user experience of receiving a diagnosis (Milne et al, 2000; Pratt & Wilkinson, 2001). The authors draw upon these ‐ as well as wider research ‐ in suggesting ways that diagnostic practice can be improved by taking account of the user perspective. The findings are relevant to all those professionals working in a primary care context.
Any Complaints?
Authors: Dow John
Published: August 2011

This article considers the role played by complaints procedures within social services and the NHS and current government proposals for reform. It looks at the impact on complaints procedures of recent legal developments, in particular the implementation of the Human Rights Act and the use of Alternative Dispute Resolution, and recent cases.
Development of Integrated Children's Services in Exeter: A Case Study
Authors: Hapgood Miles , Shaw John
Published: August 2011

This article describes the experience of designing and implementing a joint health/social services/education strategy for children with special needs and their families in the Exeter, East Devon, Mid Devon and North Devon Primary Care Trust localities. While partnership with parents was a guiding principle and beneficial changes in policy and practice were introduced, the article gives practical illustrations of how easily a gap can emerge between rhetoric and reality during implementation.
User Control in a Best Value Review of Direct Payments Project: A Case Study
Authors: Evans Clare
Published: August 2011

Service users in Wiltshire have had the opportunity of demonstrating how they could undertake a user‐controlled Best Value review including showing the variety of ways they chose to evaluate the service ‐ in this case Direct Payments. Using the Best Value framework of the four Cs, they compared support services and costings with those in other local authority areas, designed consultation surveys and challenged care managers about their knowledge of the service. Learning from the project has implications for all those involved in social care Best Value reviews and the participation of users.
A Response to the Best Value Review of Direct Payments in Wiltshire Undertaken by Disabled People
Authors: Macfarlane Ann
Published: August 2011

An independent disability equality consultant examines the wider context in which the innovative Wiltshire user‐controlled Best Value review of direct payments should be perceived, and directly challenges some current policy and practice.
Primary Care Partnerships — Progress and Problems
Authors: Coleman Anna , Glendinning Caroline
Published: August 2011

Primary care groups and trusts, social services and wider local authority departments are making good progress in developing partnerships in a rapidly changing policy environment. These partnerships are developing at different levels (strategic planning, operational service delivery), both with social services departments and with a wider range of local authority functions. This paper draws on the latest round of the three‐year national Tracker Survey of Primary Care Groups and Trusts. The partnerships developed by PCG/Ts are considerably broader than the original key collaboration required with local social services departments; this raises questions about the role of the social services representative on the PCG Board/PCT Executive Committee. Some of the traditional obstacles to partnerships ‐ particularly differences in organisational boundaries ‐ and the imperatives of national policy priorities are continuing to shape local collaborative activity.
REAL Evidence‐Based Practice Development: A Partnership Approach
Authors: Barratt Moira
Published: August 2011

This article examines what has been learnt about practice‐academic partnership from two Research in Practice projects aimed at supporting the development of evidence‐based practice in social care. Tangible support from organisations is needed to support both the partnership approach and the development of evidence‐based practice.
Promoting Health and Active Life in Older Age: Lessons from Working with Standard 8 of the National Service Framework for Older People
Authors: Granville Gillian , Bowers Helen
Published: August 2011

This paper explores how Standard 8 of the NSF for Older People can help local services and communities address the health inequalities agenda. We introduce the initiatives being undertaken by eight pilot sites participating in the Pre‐Retirement Health Check Pilots Initiative managed by the Health Development Agency, and share some of the emerging themes from their work. Finally, we reflect on the links between the work of the pilots and the requirements of Standard 8, as well as the wider policy and practice implications for sustaining this work beyond the life of the project.
Making Valuing People Real in West Sussex: Meeting the Challenges for Partnership Boards
Authors: Tyson Andrew , Wood Alicia
Published: August 2011

Valuing People presents a range of challenges for managers and other stakeholders. Partnership boards are charged with leading the change process. The paper sets out the steps that the West Sussex Board has taken to meet these challenges and describes in particular a ‘framework for frameworks’ that the Board has adopted to produce truly person‐centred and inclusive plans. The paper concludes that stakeholders can be empowered to find their voice where planners commit to an inclusive process.
Multi‐Agency Care Coordination and Key Worker Services for Disabled Children
Authors: Sloper Patricia , Jones Lisa , Triggs Suzanne , Howarth Jane , Barton Katy
Published: August 2011

The authors describe the rationale for key worker services for disabled children, factors to consider in developing such services, the role of key workers, how a key worker service is operating in one authority and the impact it has had for families who received it.
Adaptation Policies Especially for Children: Key Factors for Effective Outcomes
Authors: Heywood Frances
Published: August 2011

Good housing is vital to the well‐being of children, but disabled children are widely suffering social exclusion and deprivation of life chances through housing adaptations that are not good enough. Whereas generous provision can do immense long‐term good, adaptations that do not allow for children's growth or development are a waste of time and money. National policy on adaptation has not so far addressed the particular needs of children. Under regulatory reform local authorities have a chance to leap ahead. A checklist to help with planning is offered.
Making Friends, Having Fun: Young Disabled People Highlight the Barriers
Authors: Murray Pippa
Published: August 2011

Current legislation and policy initiatives of relevance to disabled children and their families are underpinned by international human rights conventions. For example, the Children Act (1989) promotes the human rights highlighted in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (1988), while Valuing People (2001) aims to pave the way to the fulfilment of the obligations enshrined in the Human Rights Act (1998). In spite of this, disabled young people and their families commonly report leading lives characterised by stigma, isolation and exclusion. Focusing on the experience of one young man who is generally perceived as having little to offer the world, this article explores the impact that the exclusion and discrimination faced by young disabled people have on opportunities for forming relationships and building friendships. It is suggested that the key to providing meaningful change in the lives of young disabled people lies in listening to their experiences, paying close attention to the messages they give, and finally taking care to prioritise respectful relationship in all service settings.
Implementing the Single Assessment Process: Driving Change or Expecting the Impossible?
Authors: McNally David , Cornes Michelle , Clough Roger
Published: August 2011

This article considers the potential for single assessment to overcome longstanding difficulties with care management, looks at initial progress in one SHA area and identifies some key priorities for the next stages of local implementation. We conclude that, not only is much more work required in localities, but additional national guidance and resources may also be required.
Bringing Learning to Life: A User‐led, Action‐Learning Model
Authors: Fardell Jill
Published: August 2011

The DARE Foundation has pioneered an innovative and effective learning approach using workshop programmes to identify needs and provide improved services for a range of client groups, using collaborative groups of users and professionals.
The Health of People with Learning Disabilities in the UK: Evidence and Implications for the NHS
Authors: Elliott Johan , Hatton Chris , Emerson Eric
Published: August 2011

The paper presents a comprehensive review of the UK research literature on the health needs of people with learning disabilities, and the response of mainstream health services to those health needs. Evidence from the review, although limited in some areas, clearly demonstrates that people with learning disabilities in the UK have significantly poorer health than the UK population generally in a number of priority areas for the NHS. Furthermore, people with learning disabilities have particularly poor health in a number of additional areas involving significant mainstream NHS resources. Despite these considerably greater health needs, people with learning disabilities receive poorer support from mainstream health services, across primary care, hospital services and screening programmes.The findings of the review indicate that mainstream NHS services should not only include people with learning disabilities, but also prioritise them as a particularly vulnerable group requiring urgent attention if general NHS priorities for health inequalities and service standards are to be met.
Facilitating Transitions for People with Profound and Complex Learning Difficulties
Authors: Dee Lesley , Byers Richard
Published: August 2011

This article is based on a three‐year research project designed to improve the quality of life of people with profound and complex learning difficulties, particularly during periods of transition. Following a survey of post‐school opportunities, the project adopted an action research approach in four case study sites. The project concluded that it was important not only to support transitions but also to enable individuals to influence and direct change in their own lives. Commitment to increasing local opportunities, combined with a focus on staff development, is fundamental to enhancing the quality of the lives of people with profound and complex learning difficulties and those who support them.
Getting Informed: Researching the Production of Accessible Information for People with Learning Disabilities
Authors: Townsley Ruth , Rodgers Jackie , Folkes Liz
Published: August 2011

The Information for All Project, based at the Norah Fry Research Centre, is investigating the current evidence on accessible information. As well as conducting a systematic review of the research literature, we have interviewed information providers (including service user‐led groups) about their practical experience of making information easier to understand. Data analysis is ongoing, and this article summarises the main emerging themes. Key messages include the importance of defining the target audience and their information needs and involving this audience through direct consultation and evaluation. It is essential that information that is made easier to understand is also made easier to access, and that careful attention is given to how the information will reach the end user.
Glass Half Empty or Half Full? Response to Stuart Cumella
Authors: Routledge Martin
Published: August 2011

This response agrees with Stuart Cumella that it is reasonable to challenge the priority accorded by government to people with learning disabilities and to question the power of the mechanisms for implementation of Valuing People. At the same time, however, it argues for a mature political approach, encouraging the taking of opportunities that are available and the shaping of structures and initiatives which are part of the implementation arrangements. Finally, it challenges Cumella's interpretation of person‐centred planning and seeks to offer some clarity on best use of person‐centred approaches.
Increasing Nursing Home Capacity through Public Sector Provision: A Partnership Approach in Hampshire
Authors: Hardy Colin
Published: August 2011

Hampshire County Council, the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Strategic Health Authority and the seven primary care trusts in the County Council area have formed a partnership to create additional nursing care capacity. This paper examines the background, identifies an approach to modelling the need for nursing home places and addresses the partnerships being put in place to create additional capacity in the public sector.
Transition from Adolescence to Young Adulthood: Is Partnership Working up to the Task?
Authors: Hudson Bob
Published: August 2011

The transition from adolescence to young adulthood for people with a learning disability is fraught with complexity, and this has increased as the range of agencies potentially involved has increased. Despite the development of a range of new partnership tools, the evidence to date is that transition generally remains badly handled. This article examines the evidence, policies and issues.
Working Together in Children's Services: A Time to be Bold?
Authors: Hudson Bob
Published: August 2011

The number of children in England, and the number who may need additional support from services, is large and growing. At the latest count there are approximately three million children aged under five, 6.4 m aged 5‐14, and 3.1m young people aged 15‐19. Children and young people from ethnic minority backgrounds make up about a fifth of the total population under 20 ‐ much higher than for other age groups. In total there are reckoned to be 12m children, 400,000 children in need, 59,700 looked after children, 320,000 disabled children, 600,000 live births a year and approximately one million with mental health disorders (DoH, 2003a).No single agency or profession can cater for such a large and disparate number of individuals, but increasingly their needs are crossing traditional organisational and professional boundaries. The partnership imperative that has become so influential in services for adults is now set to re‐shape the domain of children's services. Accordingly, the aim of this article is to examine the genesis of this imperative, to explore the emergent policy responses and to gauge their likely effectiveness.
Intermediate Care: From Innovation to… Post‐Mortem?
Authors: Wilson Keith
Published: August 2011

To provide a controversial opening to this Special Issue, an expert casts a critical eye over the creation and implementation of the national policy for intermediate care.
Intermediate Care or Integrated Care: The Scottish Perspective on Support Provision for Older People
Authors: Petch Alison
Published: August 2011

Intermediate care has featured strongly in evolving strategy for support provision for older people in England. In Scotland the concept appears to have been rejected in favour of an emphasis on integrated care. This apparent divergence is explored in the broader context of policy variation post‐devolution and against the aspirations for a whole‐system approach.
Intermediate Care: Its Place in a Whole‐Systems Approach
Authors: Asthana Sheena , Halliday Joyce
Published: August 2011

This paper considers intermediate care as part of a whole‐systems approach to care. It argues that this perspective allows a wider appreciation of the potential benefits of intermediate care, and that this would also be a welcome feature in future research studies. The paper draws on an evaluation of intermediate care in Cornwall and outlines the central role of intermediate care co‐ordination in the whole system. The example of residential rehabilitation is then used to examine how an individual service relates to the system as a whole. Finally, factors that may also influence local systems such as partnership working and rurality are considered; these are seen as important considerations for any other authorities which might seek to replicate the Cornwall approach to intermediate care.
Promoting Flexibility in the Intermediate Care Workforce
Authors: Nancarrow Susan
Published: August 2011

This paper discusses the pressures on intermediate care services to provide a flexible approach to staffing, including a constantly changing policy context, winter pressures and different service remits. It suggests three ways that managers can address the issue of flexibility: the adoption of flexible team structures, flexible worker roles and flexible employment structures.
Continuing Health Care ‐ Where Now in the Continuum of Care?
Authors: Dow John
Published: August 2011

This special issue emphasises how the ‘whole system’ of care is becoming even more complex. With the pending implementation of the Community Care (Delayed Discharges etc) Act 2003, there are pressures on strategic health authorities and local councils to reach agreement on eligibility criteria for continuing health care. But in the wake of a special report from the Health Service Ombudsman, there is still plenty of room for debate about the lawfulness of the criteria.
Towards Integrated Health and Social Care for Older People: A European Review
Authors: Billings J. , Alaszewski A. , Coxon K.
Published: August 2011

This paper provides a European overview of alternative approaches to integrated care for older people, drawing from a wider European project entitled PROCARE. It discusses the structural complexities that create the challenges in integrated care, compares and contrasts approaches to integrated care through a structure and process framework, and considers the place of person‐centred seamless care in European health and social care models.
Home, Sweet Home
Authors: Dow John
Published: August 2011

This article considers the application of upper cost policies to domiciliary care packages and the problems and pitfalls that can occur in practice.
Using the Evidence to Develop Quality Assistive Technology Services
Authors: Mountain Gail
Published: August 2011

The ramifications of assistive technology for both current and future service provision are wide. In recent years, policy makers have become increasingly aware of the potential of these services to maintain older and disabled people in their own homes. The purpose of this paper is to report on a literature review and provide illustrations of how the evidence can be used to underpin the development of assistive technology services for older and disabled people and disabled children. The aim is to support the development of user‐focused, accessible services.
Bringing Health and Social Care Together for Older People: Wiltshire's Journey from Independence to Interdependence to Integration
Authors: Jones Ray
Published: August 2011

The paper charts ten years of movement in Wiltshire towards greater integration for health and social care, and highlights two important messages for others at different stages of the process. The first is that while an early strategic vision can create the right conditions, there can be no short cuts to effective integration. The second is that independent evaluation is necessary to produce the evidence to sustain initiatives and promote organisational and professional learning ‐ which are key ingredients of the change process.
Inside Multi‐disciplinary Practice: Challenges for Single Assessment
Authors: Cornes Michelle , Clough Roger
Published: August 2011

In this paper, we draw on ethnographic research which tracked older people's journeys through the health and social care system, highlighting some of the key issues which will need to be addressed if the new single assessment process is to become user‐ and carer‐friendly. We argue that the concept of the ‘whole system’ is a misnomer, and a more accurate picture is that of a world at war, with territorial disputes rife and border controls tighter than ever. We suggest that too much emphasis has been placed on IT systems and paperwork and that the real challenge is to cut through the jargon of modernisation and to see things from a wholly different perspective.
Partnership and Governance: The Hertfordshire Experience
Authors: Pickup Sarah
Published: August 2011

This local case study reviews progress in joint working in adult services in a county which has been developing innovative partnership arrangements for some years. It is a follow‐up to an article in this journal in Issue 10.2 April 2002 (The road to integration in Hertfordshire) and focuses particularly on practical issues which have now arisen from the work of the county‐wide joint commissioning board. This will be of interest to other localities where complex collaborative arrangements are needed because several PCTs are working with one local authority.
Direct Payments
Authors: Dow John
Published: August 2011

The legal column looks at the new duty to make direct payments and the associated regulations and guidance, and considers the implications in relation to Best Value, mental capacity and employer's liability.
How Literature Reviews can be Written to Influence Practice: The RiP Approach
Authors: Tunnard Jo
Published: August 2011

This article describes the literature reviews produced by Research in Practice (RiP) for social care and other practitioners and managers and those involved in policy and service development. The focus is on how they are prepared, some of the problems to be resolved by authors, how they might differ from other reviews and feedback from users.
Mapping the Data Needed to Plan Integrated Services: A Case Study of Children's Services in one Locality
Authors: Axford Nick , Madge Jill , Morpeth Louise , Pring Jo
Published: August 2011

Children's services agencies in England are increasingly expected to work together to plan needsled interventions in their locality. Such planning requires good information on local need and service take‐up, yet this is often lacking. Connecting data from single agency, multi‐agency and community studies in one district shows how the severity of need overlaps with different service and administrative categories. The findings point to the value of such mapping exercises, while the pattern that emerges highlights the importance of planning provision for all children and of linking intervention to thresholds of severity of need. The approach will have relevance to other care groups.
Planning for Change? Learning Disability Joint Investment Plans and Implementing the Valuing People White Paper
Authors: Ward Linda , Fyson Rachel , Watson Debby
Published: August 2011

Valuing People outlined ambitious plans for improving services for people with learning disabilities in England. Strategies to realise these goals were to be taken forward through the new structure of learning disability partnership boards, based in the first instance on local joint investment plans (JIPs). This article reports findings from an analysis of the first round of learning disability JIPs, compiled as the implementation of the White Paper began, and reviews the implications for the development of robust local strategies and action plans.
The Internet: Can you get Away Without it? Supporting the Caring Professions in Accessing Research for Practice
Authors: Moseley Alice
Published: August 2011

This paper argues that staff in the caring professions wishing to use research evidence to inform their practice cannot afford to ignore the Internet, since it is far and away the best means of access to evidence there is. It also provides a description of and rationale for evidence‐based practice, and highlights the benefits of the Internet using examples of currently available research resources. However, the existing evidence from the social care field indicates poor levels of access to the Internet and other electronic research resources. The implications of this are discussed. It is suggested that appropriate training and support must be provided alongside better Internet access. The paper is set in the context of government initiatives encouraging e‐government.
Governance and Partnerships
Authors: Peck Edward , Six Perri , Glasby Jon , Skelcher Chris
Published: August 2011

Discussion of ‘governance’ has become commonplace in health and social care in recent years, and ‘good governance’ seems to be seen in some quarters as offering potential answers to some of the complex challenges facing public services. Drawing on evidence from both the private and public sectors on governance, this short paper explores three key interrelated questions: What do we mean by governance (and how does it differ from management)? What is the evidence on governance? What can good governance do? It concludes with some reflections on the key messages for governance in health and social care. In so doing, it draws on material from the Integrated Care Network paper on governance and partnerships written by two of the authors (ICN, 2004) and an ESRC‐funded study of these issues by another (Skelcher & Mathur, 2004).
Developing Interprofessional Capability in Students of Health and Social Care ‐ The Role of Practice‐Based Learning
Authors: Gordon Frances , Walsh Claire , Marshall Michelle , Wilson Fiona , Hunt Tim
Published: August 2011

The modernisation agenda in health and social care is concerned with providing an integrated service for patients/clients and their carers. This paper focuses on the nature of practice‐based learning environments that support the development of students as effective interprofessional practitioners for the modernised health and social care services.
Community Partnership for Health and Well‐Being: The Falmouth Beacon Project
Authors: Stuteley Hazel , Cohen Claire
Published: August 2011

The Beacon Project is an example of a successful multi‐agency intervention in a community fraught with social and economic problems. This article first summarises what happened, and then, from the perspectives of organisational and complexity theory, analyses retrospectively the key lessons learnt. The project, which has received national and international recognition, focused upon a partnership between health visitors, residents and statutory agencies. Health visitors helped to forge relationships based on trust and respect, creating the receptive context for transformational change. It is possible that the fluid, ‘collateral’ organisation that was thus developed was capable of both understanding and tackling the complex inter‐organisational and social issues presented by the Estate.The main conclusions are that cohesion and improvement can be developed through facilitated dialogue rather than control and explicit leadership, and that shared vision among agencies, and the trust achieved through equal dialogue, can bring significant change and empowerment to communities.
Examining the Effectiveness and Suitability of Referral and Assessment in Intermediate Care Services
Authors: Kotiadis K , Carpenter G , Mackenzie M
Published: August 2011

This paper demonstrates how a single assessment tool can be linked to intermediate care services eligibility criteria to examine referrals and admissions to these services, by reporting on a project in a locality in East Kent. The project involved implementing a standardised patient assessment tool for three months in all intermediate care services, to examine the suitability of patients entering each of these intermediate care services. This paper focuses on the results of the community assessment rehabilitation team (CART), a recuperative care centre and the day hospital. After analysing patient assessments, we found that some patients in all intermediate care services were placed there inappropriately, and this was most evident in the day hospital. The paper concludes with considerations and suggestions for improving the effectiveness of assessment tools in practice.
Community Care for Asylum Seekers
Authors: Dow John
Published: August 2011

This article looks at recent developments in the law relating to local authorities' responsibility for providing accommodation for asylum seekers. It contrasts the position of failed asylum seekers and other classes of persons who are ineligible for community care services.
Reflections on a Model of Empowered User Involvement
Authors: Evans Clare
Published: August 2011

Using her experience in working with a local authority and a large voluntary sector provider, the author describes a model which provides effective and challenging user involvement which is also empowering for service users to participate in. Long‐term financial resources are seen as essential to develop user‐controlled organisations, and it is argued that they should be based on the social model of disability. Capacity‐building techniques such as information provision, training and meeting together are seen as enabling users to gain skill and confidence.
Learning Disability Partnership Boards: Making Participation Real?
Authors: Nicoll Tricia
Published: August 2011

This article considers the role and function of learning disability partnership boards. It focuses on how partnership boards have developed their skills in working in partnership with people with learning disabilities (self‐advocates) and uses examples from around England as well as observations from self‐advocates themselves.
Intermediate Care: Older People's Involvement and Experiences
Authors: Manthorpe Jill , Cornes Michelle
Published: August 2011

New service models such as intermediate care may find it difficult to involve older people in services that are time‐limited and unfamiliar. Their staff may perceive themselves as having little time to sustain or build relationships with voluntary and community‐based organisations engaged in intermediate care. This article shows how such challenges can be met by drawing on the experiences of voluntary sector projects involved in intermediate care services.
Joined‐up Solutions to Joined‐up Problems? Alternatives to Care Trusts
Authors: Glasby Jon , Peck Edward , Davis Marion
Published: August 2011

Based on a workshop commissioned by the West Midlands branch of the Association of Directors of Social Services, this editorial considers possible alternatives to care trusts. Although the recent consultation on a new vision for adult social care emphasises the need for more effective partnerships between health and social care, the current care trust model has a number of limitations for many health and local government communities, that could be overcome by alternative approaches.
Down's Syndrome and Dementia: Generating Local Evidence
Authors: McBrien Judith
Published: August 2011

This commentary complements the review by Hussein and Manthorpe by outlining the good practice established in one locality which now routinely screens all adults with Down's Syndrome. It reflects on patterns of accommodation, on staff training needs and on the implications of an integrated approach.
Key Messages for Successful Implementation of a Specialist Community Rehabilitation Service
Authors: Bailey Nina
Published: August 2011

This paper considers the experience of developing and implementing a community‐based multidisciplinary rehabilitation service in the City of Wolverhampton. It outlines the process of defining and agreeing the service parameters, objectives and methods of service delivery and includes the main points from an initial evaluation of the team. The article concludes with key messages for consideration by others setting up a similar service.
The Freedom of Information Act
Authors: Dow John
Published: August 2011

This article highlights some of the key features of the Freedom of Information Act and considers its implications for health and social services authorities.
Commissioning Information for People with Learning Difficulties
Authors: Rodgers Jackie , Townsley Ruth
Published: August 2011

Organisations need to think about how to share information with people with learning difficulties. This paper draws on findings from a recent research project to inform the commissioning of easier information. Its aim is to promote more effective information provision and the best possible value for money.
Data Sharing: An Introduction
Authors: Dow John
Published: August 2011

The law on data sharing is complex and uncertain, making it difficult for practitioners to balance rules on disclosing data in the public or individual interest with those designed to protect confidentiality and privacy. The law does not provide clear direction, but the paper sets out factors that should be considered when a decision has to be made.
A Framework for Interprofessional Capability: Developing Students of Health and Social Care as Collaborative Workers
Authors: Gordon Frances , Walsh Claire
Published: August 2011

Modernised health and social care services require that qualifying practitioners have the necessary skills for them to practise collaboratively. The nature of interprofessional working is, however, poorly understood. This article describes the development of learning outcomes regarding interprofessional working that are relevant to all professions.
Significant Life Events: Developing Knowledge for Care at the End of Life in Old Age
Authors: Lloyd Liz , Cameron Ailsa
Published: August 2011

A better understanding of experiences of the end of life in old age is important for practitioners, but there are considerable methodological and ethical challenges to research in this area. An interdisciplinary team at the University of Bristol conducted a pilot study of 100 people aged over 80, over the course of a year. The study focused on significant events in the lives of participants, the vast majority of whom were living ordinary lives in the community. Data were gathered from participants and their relatives and, where relevant, from health and social care professionals. In this paper key findings are presented and the implications for research and practice considered.
The Sandwell Telecare Project
Authors: Waddington Paul , Downs Barry
Published: August 2011

This article begins with a case study of the Sandwell Telecare Project, an innovatory venture to pioneer the introduction of electronic aids to enable vulnerable people to live independently. The article concludes with an account of the evaluation, which was undertaken by an independent consultant.The publication of this article is particularly timely in view of the Department of Health's expressed intention to make a substantial national investment in assistive technology such as the Sandwell Telecare Project for the two years from 2006. The investment will be known as the Preventative Technology Grant.
The Carers (Equal Opportunities) Act 2004
Authors: Dow John
Published: August 2011

This article looks at the key provisions of the Carers (Equal Opportunities) Act 2004 and examines how far it represents a change to existing law.
Reflections on Integrating Medical and Social Care: Five Laws Revisited
Authors: Leutz Walter
Published: August 2011

This paper reviews, rethinks, expands and applies the author's ‘laws’ of integration, which were first published six years ago. This approach both introduces the laws to readers who don't know them, and tests their utility for those who do. In retrospect, real‐world integration efforts mix and match the original components of linkage, co‐ordination and full integration. But the message remains to work at all levels, keep it simple, make finances supportive and empower social care.
The Integration Dilemma: How Deep and how Broad to go?
Authors: Glasby Jon
Published: August 2011

Following fundamental reviews and reform of services for children and for adults, there is increased recognition of the importance of the integration of front‐line services. Against this background, this article summarises recent changes and considers the tensions that will need resolving as services implement their new structures. In particular, the paper presents a framework for helping to consider the nature of the partners that services may need to engage (how broad?) and the type of relationships they will need (how deep?).