Sue Davies, Jane Hughes, Karen Davies, Elizabeth Dalgarno, Rowan Elaine Jasper, Helen Chester, Amy Roberts and David Challis
The purpose of this study is to examine changes in the nature, form and range of commissioning arrangements for home care.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to examine changes in the nature, form and range of commissioning arrangements for home care.
Design/methodology/approach
Data from two discrete national surveys of English local authorities with social service responsibilities were used. In the first, undertaken in 2007, responses from 111 of the 151 local authorities (74%) were received; in the second, undertaken in 2017, responses from 109 local authorities (72%) were received. A combined data set of 79 complete cases, 52% of local authorities, was created. Percentage point differences across the two time periods were calculated and tested to identify significant changes and a systematic analysis of the free-text responses regarding intended changes to the commissioning process in each data set was undertaken.
Findings
Findings identified substantial changes in some aspects of the commissioning of home care in the 2007-2017 decade. Collaboration between stakeholders had increased, particularly regarding the identification of future needs. Improved conditions of service and remuneration for home care workers were evident within the commissioning process. Standardised charges for home care (regardless of time and day) had also become more widespread. Initiatives to prompt providers to deliver more personalised care were more evident.
Originality/value
This paper describes the evolution of commissioning arrangements for home care in localities in response to national policy initiatives. It provides guidance to commissioners in meeting the needs of current service users and emphasises the importance of collaboration with stakeholders, particularly providers, in securing future capacity.
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Jane Hughes, Saima Ahmed, Paul Clarkson, Sue Davies, Karen Stewart and David Challis
It was hypothesised that there were variations in health and social care services available for older people with dementia and their carers, and that measurement of this between…
Abstract
Purpose
It was hypothesised that there were variations in health and social care services available for older people with dementia and their carers, and that measurement of this between localities was possible. The purpose of this paper is to present a framework for examining this.
Design/methodology/approach
Using a case study approach, data from national surveys of local authorities providing social care and National Health Services Trusts providing old age mental health services conducted in 2014/2015 in England were used. From these, indicators of variation in services for people with dementia and their carers in different geographical areas were created. Measurement of the presence/absence of each service permitted the creation of a service mix score for each area.
Findings
The framework comprised 16 attributes each with indicators describing the characteristics of the organisations providing the services; the skill mix of community mental health teams for older people; and the health care and social care services available in localities. Variation was evident, confirmed by quartile analysis and exemplars, suggesting that older people with dementia and their carers in different localities are likely to experience differences in the range of provision available, particularly social care services.
Originality/value
The case study approach used achieved its objectives, and the resultant framework has potential for generalisability and utility, given acceptable ecological validity and discriminant validity in identifying variations in service mix. It could be used in both research and practice.
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Mark Wilberforce, Jane Hughes, Paul Clarkson, David Whyte, Helen Chester, Sue Davies and David Challis
The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the implementation and potential value of an electronic referral system to improve integrated discharge planning for hospitalised older…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the implementation and potential value of an electronic referral system to improve integrated discharge planning for hospitalised older adults with complex care needs. This new technology formed part of the “Common Assessment Framework for Adults” policy in England.
Design/methodology/approach
Mixed methods were undertaken as part of a case study approach within an acute hospital in the North West of England. First, qualitative interviews were undertaken with practitioners to explore early experiences using the new technology. Second, routinely collected administrative data were analysed, comparing referrals made using the new technology and those made through the usual paper-based process.
Findings
Qualitative interviews found that an electronic discharge system has, in principle, the potential to improve the efficiency and suitability of integrated care planning. However, the implementation proved fragile to decisions taken elsewhere in the local care system, meaning its scope was severely curtailed in practice. Several “socio-technical” issues were identified, including the loss of valuable face-to-face communication by replacing manual with electronic referrals.
Research limitations/implications
The small number of patients referred during the implementation phase meant that patient outcomes could not be definitively judged. Research into the longer-term implications and value of electronic referral systems is needed.
Originality/value
There is concern that attempts to integrate health and social care are stymied by incompatible systems for recording service user information. This research explores a novel attempt to share assessment information and improve support planning across health and social care boundaries.
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Jane Hughes, Sue Davies, Helen Chester, Paul Clarkson, Karen Stewart and David Challis
The purpose of this paper is to explore the views of people with learning disabilities on issues associated with continuity of care in the transition from full-time education to…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to explore the views of people with learning disabilities on issues associated with continuity of care in the transition from full-time education to adult care and support.
Design/methodology/approach
Data collection was undertaken with people with learning disabilities and staff in two advocacy organisations in one area of England in 2012. In total, 19 participants attended three focus groups. Analysis focussed on continuity of care and was guided by the framework approach to qualitative analysis.
Findings
Teachers, social workers in children’s services and youth workers were identified as making important contributions to the transition process. Information relating to learning and social development was identified as most important to inform transition planning with less priority accorded to health, communication, and self-care and independence. Participants appeared to value principles which underpin continuity of care.
Research limitations/implications
This study provides insights into attributes of continuity of care valued by people with a learning disability. Possibilities of translating these attributes into practice within localities are explored. Findings could be used to inform strategic planning locally to promote service integration thereby contributing to continuity of care within transition planning.
Originality/value
Continuity of care in the transition planning process is highlighted in policy guidance with recognition that both practice and procedures require improvement. This research explores areas for development from the perspective of people with learning disabilities.
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Jamie Znidarsich, Susan Davies and Susan Mary Sullivan
The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the status and impact of a recently formed Resident and Family Council to determine whether the group was achieving the goals of improving…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the status and impact of a recently formed Resident and Family Council to determine whether the group was achieving the goals of improving long-term care facility relationships, enhancing communication and promoting positive change within the facility.
Design/methodology/approach
The pilot evaluation was designed to develop recommendations for future sustainability, of the council, as well as providing wider lessons about the benefits and potential pitfalls of such groups. Data were gathered utilizing participatory qualitative research methods. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with nine council members, representing all groups within the Resident and Family Council. Documents relating to the work of the council and observational field notes maintained during meetings were also analyzed.
Findings
A number of themes and dynamics were identified relating to communication, collaboration and future sustainability.
Practical implications
Recommendations for initiating Resident and Family Councils should include surveying interest within long-term care facilities, involving the facility ombudsmen or volunteer coordinator, and assessing resources within the community, such as volunteer organizations or partnering with local education organizations.
Originality/value
This original research can serve as a template for establishing Resident and Family Councils within long-term care facilities.
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Abstract
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Zoe Fowler, Adela Baird, Stephen Baron, M.B.D Susan, Richard Procter and Jane Salisbury
Challenges facing researcher development are explored in relation to three UK case study initiatives of building research capacity in Education. Drawing evidence from evaluations…
Abstract
Challenges facing researcher development are explored in relation to three UK case study initiatives of building research capacity in Education. Drawing evidence from evaluations of these initiatives, we argue that expansive research workplaces build research capacity particularly effectively. The nature of expansiveness is dependent upon the range of learning opportunities, engagement with research communities and interpersonal support. The importance of inter‐institutional collaboration to promote capacity across the academic discipline is also highlighted. We conclude that the development of, engagement with, and investment in inter‐institutional, interproject communities is imperative to the effective building of research capacity.
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Julienne Meyer, Hazel Heath, Cheryl Holman and Tom Owen
This paper highlights the need for researchers to work across disciplinary boundaries in order to capture the complexity that care practitioners have to engage with everyday in…
Abstract
This paper highlights the need for researchers to work across disciplinary boundaries in order to capture the complexity that care practitioners have to engage with everyday in care home settings. Drawing on findings from a literature review on the complexity of loss in continuing care institutions for older people, the case is made for less victim blaming and more appreciative approaches to research. The way this thinking informed the development of a further literature review on quality of life in care homes (My Home Life) is discussed. Findings from this second study are shared by illustrating key messages with quotes from older residents, relatives and staff living, visiting and working in care homes. These best practice messages focus on: transition into a care home; working to help residents maintain their identity; creating community within care homes; shared decision‐making; health and health services; end‐of‐life care; keeping the workforce fit for purpose, and promoting positive culture. The importance of collaborative working in both research and practice is discussed. The paper is likely to be of interest to all those concerned with improving and developing evidence‐based practice in the care home sector, including users and service providers, managers, commissioners and inspectors, policy‐makers, researchers and teachers.
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The purpose of this paper is to explore the challenges and opportunities of collaboration in interpretive consumer research.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to explore the challenges and opportunities of collaboration in interpretive consumer research.
Design/methodology/approach
The paper reviews literature on research teamwork, particularly on qualitative and international projects. It also provides an account of research collaboration on an interpretive research project across four countries, involving eight researchers.
Findings
Despite the cult of individualism in academic life, most articles in leading marketing journals are now written by multi‐author teams. The process and implications of research collaboration, particularly on qualitative and international projects, have received little attention within the marketing literature. Qualitative collaborations call for another layer of reflexivity and attention to the politics and emotions of teamwork. They also require the negotiation of a social contract acceptable to the group and conducive to the emergence of different perspectives throughout the research process.
Originality/value
While issues surrounding the researcher‐research participant relationship are well explored in the field, this paper tackles an issue that often remains tacit in the marketing literature, namely the impact of the relationships between researchers. The paper draws on accounts of other research collaborations as well as authors' experiences, and discusses how interpersonal and cross‐cultural dynamics influence the work of interpretive research teams.
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The aim is to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting‐edge research and case studies.
Abstract
Purpose
The aim is to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting‐edge research and case studies.
Design/methodology/approach
The briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context.
Findings
Writers and artists sometimes refer to the “Eureka moment” when they had the great idea which would ultimately propel them to fame or greatness. J.K. Rowling said she had hers, the flash of inspiration when she conceived the idea of the Harry Potter novels, on a train journey.
Practical implications
The article provides strategic insights and practical thinking that have influenced some of the world's leading organizations.
Social implications
The article provides strategic insights and practical thinking that can have a broader social impact.
Originality/value
The briefing saves busy executives and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy‐to‐digest format.