Embedding Outcomes in Homecare Reablement for older people in N Lanarkshire- ESRC Knowledge Exchange

"This project aims to investigate the potential for and means of implementing evidence, (drawing upon formal research studies, practitioner wisdom and user and carer perspectives) about outcomes based working in the context of the home support re-ablement model adopted in North Lanarkshire, Scotland. There is a need to develop outcomes-based working in relation to re-ablement services, which are being promoted throughout the UK (CSED, 2007). Further, re-ablement has been recognised as achieving significant savings for local authorities (PSSRU, 2010). Taken together embedding an outcomes approach within re-ablement may assist in providing effective home care services within a context of diminishing resources, increased prevalence of long term conditions and an ageing population.

The project utilises a mixed methodological approach, including key informant interviews, focus groups and expert group events. The project aims to build on existing knowledge exchange activity to establish current practice and understanding of outcomes and re-ablement services locally, explore applicability of existing evidence, establish challenges in existing approach to outcomes and re-ablement and through this process to generate new insights which will be formulated into guidance and tools for further implementation locally and nationally. University of Strathclyde has granted full ethical approval for the project."

"The importance of the motivation of staff on the project to work to promote was noted to ensure effective outcomes.
Engagement with individuals emerges as a critical factor to successful reablement. People using home support services and their families reported that they wanted to be more involved in decision-making, and that they wanted a flexible approach, recognising that many health conditions might vary day to day.
The importance of investment in staff training and support was a key theme. In addition to identifying the importance of extra time with service users, this project found that staff valued being able to build working relationships and trust, through regular contact with each other at team meetings, which improved communication and knowledge across the team.
The literature urges caution on establishing distinct reablement services alongside existing mainstream task and time services and the findings of this project support this view
An overemphasis on hours saved can encourage a tendency to select only those most likely to be deemed successful against this measure for reablement."