bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Inside the Court of Protection
Authors: Brammer Alison 
Published: November 2012

PurposeThis paper aims to summarize the work of the Court of Protection.Design/methodology/approachThe paper outlines the history and range of applications within the jurisdiction of the Court, drawing from the Mental Capacity Act and the Code of Practice. Reference is made to annual reports of the work of the court which profile its workload. Finally there is a review of a line of case law dealing with the question of media attendance and reporting of cases before the court.FindingsThe Court in its current form was established under The Mental Capacity Act, 2005 and is a significant decision‐making body in the UK within adult safeguarding practice concerning adults whose decision‐making capacity is impaired. The implications of several specific cases are discussed.Originality/valueThis paper provides a unique insight into the work of the Court of Protection and the implications of recent decisions by the Court for adult safeguarding.
Thames Valley Police: using metrics to assess the effectiveness of strategic change
Authors: Chesters Jane 
Published: November 2012

PurposeThis case study aims to examine the transformation of Thames Valley Police's HR Service.Design/methodology/approachThe paper describes the journey taken by the Force and transformation of its use of performance measurement to manage continuous improvement in service delivery.FindingsThe study highlights the results of transformation and effective use of Orion Partners' “How Factor” assessment framework to identify further transformation opportunities.Originality/valueThe study is based on original information gained through fieldwork.
Cross‐organisational staff liabilities in integrated care settings
Authors: Mitchell Ed 
Published: November 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to consider the implications for integrated care of a recent Court of Appeal judgment about legal obligations owed to staff working in integrated care.Design/methodology/approachAnalysis of the law relating to the imposition of duties of care and how that law was applied in the integrated care context.FindingsIt was found that integrated care partners may find themselves with more extensive legal obligations towards the employees of partner organisations than had been anticipated.Originality/valueThe article assesses the first decision of the higher courts about the obligations owed to staff by non‐employing integrated care providers.
Recuperative Care: an example of partnership care which works for patients
Authors: Morrissey Yvonne , Coxon Kirstie , Carpenter Iain 
Published: November 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to evaluate the role of Recuperative Care after hospital discharge.Design/methodology/approachA combined qualitative and quantitative study. The quantitative study was a concurrent, parallel, geographically controlled trial of Recuperative Care versus standard NHS hospital rehabilitation. Recuperative Care is rehabilitation in a residential care home with no on‐site medical or nursing staff. A daily programme of exercises and activities to improve independence is provided by two in‐house occupational therapists. The primary outcome measures were discharge destination, domicile 3 and 12 months post‐discharge and mortality. A purposefully selected sample of 20 recuperative care patients was interviewed after discharge.FindingsThere was a small difference of borderline significance in initial discharge destination (slightly more patients were discharged home from recuperative care than from Hospital). However, at 3 months and 12 months there was no significant difference between the groups. A logistic regression analysis suggested the main determinant of outcome was cognitive function. There was no significant difference in mortality between the groups. The qualitative data demonstrated Recuperative Care to be a highly‐rated, positive and sometimes life‐changing experience for patients. The interview data illustrate the aspects of care and characteristics which were beneficial.Practical implicationsRecuperative care is a model of partnership working which has potential to free‐up hospital beds while benefitting patients.Originality/valueThe presentation of the qualitative data aims to highlight those aspects of Recuperative Care which seemed beneficial from a clinical perspective.
Towards integrated care in Taiwan: local issues, international challenges
Authors: Fu Tsung‐hsi , Hughes Rhidian 
Published: November 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to analyse the extent to which Taiwan's current policy agenda is moving towards an improved system of integrated health and social services. The paper informs debates about integrated care internationally.Design/methodology/approachThe case study draws on existing literature and policy documents to analyse the progress of integrated care in Taiwan, with wider implications identified internationally.FindingsFor many years Taiwan's health care and social services were separated, however, there is growing momentum for integrated care in politics, policy and practice. There are, however, a number of critical issues that need to be addressed if Taiwan is to realise its ambitions for a truly integrated system.Research limitations/implicationsThis is a small case study and overview, with the limited aim of exploring Taiwan's progress in an international context.Originality/valueThe paper contributes to an emerging body of literature on integrated care in Taiwan (some only available in Chinese), which will be of interest to policy makers and planners, not only in East Asia but internationally.
Understanding global patterns of domestic cannabis cultivation
Authors: Barratt Monica J. , Bouchard Martin , Decorte Tom , Asmussen Frank Vibeke , Hakkarainen Pekka , Lenton Simon , Malm Aili , Nguyen Holly , Potter Gary R. 
Published: November 2012

PurposeUnlike other plant‐based drugs, cannabis is increasingly grown within the country of consumption, requires minimal processing before consumption, and can be easily grown almost anywhere using indoor or outdoor cultivation techniques. Developments in agronomic technologies have led to global growth in domestic cultivation, both by cannabis users for self‐ and social‐supply, and by more commercially‐oriented growers. Cross‐national research is needed to better understand who is involved in domestic cultivation, the diversity in cultivation practices and motivations, and cultivators' interaction with the criminal justice system and cannabis control policies.Design/methodology/approachThe article introduces the Global Cannabis Cultivation Research Consortium (GCCRC), describes its evolution and aims, and outlines the methodology of its ongoing cross‐national online survey of cannabis cultivation.FindingsDespite differing national contexts, the GCCRC successfully developed a core questionnaire to be used in different countries. It accommodates varying research interests through the addition of optional survey sections. The benefits to forming an international consortium to conduct web‐based survey research include the sharing of expertise, recruitment efforts and problem‐solving.Research limitations/implicationsThe article discusses the limitations of using non‐representative online sampling and the strategies used to increase validity.Originality/valueThe GCCRC is conducting the largest cross‐national study of domestic cannabis cultivation to date. The aim is not only to better understand patterns of cannabis cultivation and how they differ between countries but also to build upon online engagement methodology with hidden populations.
How to handle legal highs? Findings from a German online survey and considerations on drug policy issues
Authors: Werse Bernd , Morgenstern Cornelia 
Published: November 2012

PurposeThis article aims to discuss the results on prevalence, patterns of use and motivations for the use of legal high products/new psychoactive substances (NPS) and possible consequences for drug policy.Design/methodology/approachThe main results are derived from a non‐representative quantitative online survey in Germany, focused on persons with experience in legal highs use.FindingsThe general prevalence of legal highs varies considerably in different European countries; generally, it is much lower than the lifetime prevalence of illicit drugs. Almost every legal highs user has experience in the use of illicit drugs. Several types of (repeated) users can be identified. “Herbal incense” products are used by many persons in order to compensate for a limited availability of cannabis or to remain inconspicuous for law enforcement. Current research chemicals (RC) users are mainly experienced drug users who seek to expand the range of drugs being consumed with RCs. Repressive drug policy approaches seem to contribute to the use of legal highs as replacement drugs.Social implicationsGiven that many NPS show side effects that are at least as serious as those associated with illicit drugs, and that long‐time risks are unpredictable, repressive drug policy enforcement may lead to increased public health risks regarding drug users.Originality/valueThe survey is the first published quantitative survey focusing on legal highs users. The results have not been published in English yet.
Mental ill health among asylum seekers and other immigrants in Sweden
Authors: Lindgren Julia , Ekblad Solvig , Asplund Maria , Irestig Robert , Burström Bo 
Published: November 2012

PurposeThe aim of this paper is to explore mental ill health among newly arrived immigrants to Sweden, in relation to their legal status and previous exposure to threats, violence and separation and to investigate how their health care needs were met.Design/methodology/approachRecords of health interviews and examinations performed January 1, 2010 to May 31, 2011, in one of six eligible primary health care centers (PHCC) in Stockholm County, Sweden were analysed.FindingsIn total, 555 records were collected and reviewed with regard to: age, sex, legal status (asylum seekers and others), exposure to threats and/or violence, exposure to separation from family member, symptoms or diagnoses, and measures taken. Reported symptoms of mental ill health were labeled mental ill health. Where health interviews led to medical examination, records from these were retrieved to investigate the care offered and given. Reporting symptoms of mental ill health was common (43 percent) among the study population. Exposure to threats and violence and separation was more common among asylum seekers who also tended to be more vulnerable to mental ill health than others who had experienced similar exposure.Practical implicationsThe health care system should consider the eco‐social conditions that favor recovery. A more generous policy of access to health care among adult asylum seekers is needed and could be an important part of the social stability during the asylum process and in the integration process.Originality/valueThe study demonstrates the need for more structured studies of mental health among asylum seekers in Sweden.
Realistic expectations with brain computer interfaces
Authors: Mulvenna Maurice , Lightbody Gaye , Thomson Eileen , McCullagh Paul , Ware Melanie , Martin Suzanne 
Published: November 2012

PurposeThis paper describes the research underpinning the development and evaluation of a brain computer interface (BCI) system designed to be suitable for domestic use by people with acquired brain injury in order to facilitate control of their home environment. The purpose of the research is to develop a robust and user‐friendly BCI system which was customisable in terms of user ability, preferences and functionality. Specifically the human interface was designed to provide consistent visual metaphors in usage, while applications change, for example, from environmental control to entertainment and communications.Design/methodology/approachThe research took a user centred design approach involving representative end‐users throughout the design and evaluation process. A qualitative study adopting user interviews alongside interactive workshops highlighted the issues that needed to be addressed in the development of a user interface for such a system. User validation then underpinned prototype development.FindingsThe findings of the research indicate that while there are still significant challenges in translating working BCI systems from the research laboratories to the homes of individuals with acquired brain injuries, participants are keen to be involved in the deign and development of such systems. In its current stage of development BCI is multi‐facetted and uses complex software, which poses a significant usability challenge. This work also found that the performance of the BCI paradigm chosen was considerably better for those users with no disability than for those with acquired brain injury. Further work is required to identify how and whether this performance gap can be addressed.Research limitations/implicationsThe research had significant challenges in terms of managing the complexity of the hardware and software set‐up and transferring the working systems to be tested by participants in their home. Furthermore, the authors believe that the development of assistive technologies for the disabled user requires a significant additional level of personalisation and intensive support to the level normally required for non‐disabled users. Coupled with the inherent complexity of BCI, this leads to technology that does not easily offer a solution to both disabled and non‐disabled users.Originality/valueThe research contributes additional findings relating to the usability of BCI systems. The value of the work is to highlight the practical issues involved in translating such systems to participants where the acquired brain injury can impact on the ability of the participant to use the BCI system.
Home modification guidelines as recommended by visually impaired people
Authors: Riazi Abbas , Ying Boon Mei , Bridge Catherine , Dain Stephen J. 
Published: November 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to provide an evidence‐base for home modification guidelines for people with visual impairment due to age‐related macular degeneration (AMD), from the perspective of people with AMD, by exploring the home modifications they find useful and would recommend to other people with visual impairment due to AMD as being effective.Design/methodology/approachPeople with impairments may not be aware of their own coping with inability strategies until they are asked to express their strategies. A qualitative approach using semi‐structured individual interviews was used to elicit the perspectives of people with AMD with regards to their preferred home modification interventions. Interviews were recorded and then transcribed verbatim into text for thematical analysis using Nvivo 8.FindingsIn total, 31 individuals (aged 79.1±5.6 years) with AMD and no other ocular diseases were recruited from a low vision clinic or the Macular Degeneration Foundation database in a metropolitan city. Interviewees had not received any formal home modification assessment from a government provider. Nevertheless, 70 per cent of participants stated that they undertook home modifications themselves or with the assistance of family and friends. The most important functional modifications as perceived by the participants concerned the installation of hand rails, non‐slip matting, colour contrasting safety stair nosing, single lever taps, slip resistant flooring, lift chairs and motion sensors that activated pathway lighting. Kitchens, steps and bathrooms were perceived as hazardous locations. Most participants had difficulties with reading fine‐print material on kitchen appliances, washing machines, microwave ovens and remote controls for electronic devices in the home.Originality/valueAn evidence‐base for useful home modifications as suggested by people with visual impairment was perceived to be a valuable resource for other people with visual impairment who may not yet have developed adaptive strategies. Industrial and interior designers and low vision rehabilitation services who aim to improve functionality of the home environment will also find these suggestions useful.
Using QR codes to aid accessibility in a museum
Authors: Haworth Annette , Williams Peter 
Published: November 2012

PurposeThis paper describes visitors' reactions to using an Apple iPad or smartphone to follow trails in a museum by scanning QR codes and draws conclusions on the potential for this technology to help improve accessibility at low‐cost.Design/methodology/approachActivities were devised which involved visitors following trails around museum objects, each labelled with a QR code and symbolised text. Visitors scanned the QR codes using a mobile device which then showed more information about an object. Project‐team members acted as participant‐observers, engaging with visitors and noting how they used the system. Experiences from each activity fed into the design of the next.FindingsSome physical and technical problems with using QR codes can be overcome with the introduction of simple aids, particularly using movable object labels. A layered approach to information access is possible with the first layer comprising a label, the second a mobile‐web enabled screen and the third choices of text, pictures, video and audio. Video was especially appealing to young people. The ability to repeatedly watch video or listen to audio seemed to be appreciated by visitors with learning disabilities. This approach can have low equipment‐cost. However, maintaining the information behind labels and keeping‐up with technological changes are on‐going processes.Originality/valueUsing QR codes on movable, symbolised object labels as part of a layered information system might help modestly‐funded museums enhance their accessibility, particularly as visitors increasingly arrive with their own smartphones or tablets.
Personal defence training in a medium secure unit – a pilot study
Authors: Mott Andy , Walton James , Harries Lee , Highfield Penny , Bleetman Anthony , Dobson Paul 
Published: November 2012

PurposeThis paper aims to examine the nature and prevalence of violence in a medium secure unit and to evaluate a personal defence training programme for staff working with mentally disordered offenders.Design/methodology/approachThe paper identifies an existing training gap associated with traditional breakaway techniques and describes a process of piloting a new educational module known as the spontaneous protection enabling accelerated response (SPEAR) system. Structured questionnaires were used to collect demographic data and analyse staff confidence and perceptions of the training module. Clinician confidence in coping with patient aggression was measured before, immediately after and at three months following participation in the new programme.FindingsA significant change in staff confidence was observed at two time scales after the training had been administered when compared with the pre‐test baseline total scores. Over 90 per cent of staff either agreed or strongly agreed that training in the new personal defence module provided a credible defence against sudden episodes of high‐risk violence.Originality/valueThe paper describes a proposed module of training that may provide a credible tertiary strategy for those frontline clinicians currently exposed to the risk of sudden, spontaneous episodes of close proximity violence where traditional breakaway techniques are likely to be ineffective. This paper would interest managers, trainers and specialist practitioners that are involved in the preparation and delivery of violence reduction initiatives aimed at promoting safer and therapeutic services.
Method and methodological reflections concerning the conduct of interviews with NHS mental healthcare patients/prisoners in HM Prison Service, UK
Authors: Jordan Melanie 
Published: November 2012

PurposeThis paper aims to explore qualitative semi‐structured interviews – conducted with NHS mental healthcare patients/prisoners located in one HM Prison Service (HMPS) establishment. The methodological reflections, whilst not directly related to the content of the interviews, seek to offer a debate about interview data in relation to the processes of their creation.Design/methodology/approachThe dialogue is designed primarily for those who conduct, or have an interest in, mental health‐orientated research, particularly those who undertake studies in secure settings with mental health service users as participants.FindingsRegarding interview method as a tool for data collection/creation, methodological foci for discussion include the structure of interview questions, participant unfamiliarity with the process, body language and non‐verbal communication, plus discussions concerning conversational turn‐taking and interviewee agency.Originality/valueThis article stems from a small‐scale empirical fieldwork study in one prison setting and offers a debate about interview data in secure settings with mental health service users.
Research watch: recovery as a personal journey: how mental health services are trying to support it
Authors: Holttum Sue 
Published: November 2012

PurposeThis Research Watch seeks to summarise two recent research papers at the forefront of research on recovery.Design/methodology/approachA search was carried out for research papers with a mental health and social inclusion focus published within the past 12 months.FindingsThe first paper summarises the way 87 different research studies describe recovery from asking people about their recovery experiences. Recovery seems to be about connecting with others, finding hope, being able to think of ourselves positively, finding meaning in life, and control over our lives. The second paper describes two major research projects supporting change in mental health services' approach to recovery in England – ImROC and REFOCUS. It also discusses major challenges, including professional values and training, and highlights the value of disability rights and human rights legislation. A key message is that enabling the full participation necessary for personal recovery requires the support of the wider society and community.Originality/valueThe first paper is the first to pull together numerous studies of recovery as a personal journey rather than cure of symptoms. Services need to know more about this view of recovery, so they can measure all relevant outcomes. The second paper describes two research projects at the forefront of enabling services to support personal recovery.