Facing the commissioning challenge: responding effectively to people whose behaviour is challenging

Abstract

Securing better health and better care outcomes for people by effective use of public resources is at the heart of the commissioning agenda. Commissioning should ensure that the needs and wishes of people are well understood, and the market managed, so there are a range of local supports and provision available at a reasonable price. This is particularly important for people with intellectual disability whose behaviour is challenging, where effective clinically informed leadership is essential. Although models of good practice have been demonstrated for more than 20 years, making this happen on a wider scale remains the real challenge. Common wisdom about positive practice is not common practice in meeting identified needs. This paper aims to demystify the ‘commissioning’ role, and highlights the case for change in current practice, exploring some of the key barriers that must be addressed and suggesting ways to achieve better outcomes.

Citation

Bering, S. (2010), "Facing the commissioning challenge: responding effectively to people whose behaviour is challenging", Advances in Mental Health and Intellectual Disabilities, Vol. 4 No. 2, pp. 4-12. https://doi.org/10.5042/amhid.2010.0313