Working with Outcomes- Reflections and Observations

Basis for Presentation

• SLC experience – Outcomes training with adults and older

people staff– Work with a children and families team

• Glasgow Caledonian University– Teaching on MSc in Social Work

South Lanarkshire

• SWIA initial scrutiny level assessment (ISLA) – low risk, but…– Need to improve recording of outcomes

• Personalisation agenda– Supporting your independence (SYI)– Support planning

• Financial pressures

South Lanarkshire

SLC Approach • Move towards an outcome- focussed approach

• Recognition of the need for a culture shift

from “doing to” to “doing with”

• Identified need to develop outcomes training

• Co-operation with IRISS

What do we mean by outcomes?

• Quality of life– e.g. Feeling safe

• Process– e.g. Being treated with respect

• Change– e.g. Reduced symptoms

Four Conversations

• Relationship – aimed at creating or developing the

relationship

• Possibility– a creative conversation

• Opportunity – a conversation about planning

• Action – where you agree what to do.

South Lanarkshire Experience

• Importance of language

• Helps to unleash creativity

• Can be empowering for staff

• Working with outcomes can take longer (at least initially)

South Lanarkshire Experience

• “One off” training unlikely to have impact

• Staff need time and support to make and embed change

• Need for training as a unit/ team

• Importance of follow-up

What else is needed?

• Leadership

• Moving away from a focus on deficits

• Change in recording practices

• A different approach to supervision

Leading for Outcomes

• Provides a context and structure

• Flexible delivery

• Has been an important support

12

"Which road should I take?“ Alice asked the cat. Where do you want to get to?" the cat asked helpfully. "I don't know," admitted Alice. "Then," advised the cat, "any road will take you there.” (Lewis Carroll- Alice in Wonderland)

In conclusion…

martin.kettle@southlanarkshire.gov.uk