Author:
Barclay Gillian,Kerr Claire
Abstract
This study explores how collaborative working across mental health and psychological (educational psychology) services is developing in Edinburgh, Scotland. Recent reports from the Scottish Executive, Health and Education, have advised on the importance of developing collaborative working practice. This study looks at to what extent this is currently being implemented and how it might be improved in the future. Questionnaires were distributed to psychological services and child and adolescent mental health services in Edinburgh and follow-up semi-structured interviews were carried out with representatives from these services. The study explored role perception, current levels of collaborative working, what does or does not lead to good collaborative working and how the services might move forward in this respect. All case carrying staff across the services received a questionnaire. However, four professional groups were the focus of questions regarding role perceptions: psychiatrists, community mental health workers, clinical and educational psychologists. One hundred and fifty questionnaires were distributed and 48 (32 per cent) were returned. Five follow-up interviews were then carried out to explore further the arising themes. The results supported much of the literature surrounding this issue. Good communication, improved resources or resource management, informal links and a better understanding of the roles of others leads to better collaborative working. There needs to be change at both individual and systemic levels to promote collaborative working in services. Implications of these findings are discussed and in particular the need for initiatives at a systemic level is highlighted.
Publisher
British Psychological Society
Subject
Developmental and Educational Psychology
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