Publication
Implementation of the Making Safeguarding Personal Approach to Strengths-based Adult Social Care: Systematic Review of Qualitative Research Evidence
Publisher:
Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date:
26-04-2022
DOI:
10.1093/BJSW/BCAC076
Abstract: Since the Care Act (2014), there is fresh impetus for social workers to apply strengths-based approaches (SBAs) when working with adults. However, implementation challenges remain. This article presents our synthesis of seven studies that examined Making Safeguarding Personal (MSP). It was conducted as part of a systematic review that aimed to summarise research evidence on the implementation of different SBAs within adult social work in the UK. Qualitative studies were analysed using a framework synthesis approach. Four themes were identified: (1) MSP as an intervention: seen as initially demanding but with long-term advantages (2) Culture and settings: required broad cultural changes ‘outward facing’ and smaller/specialist councils tended to find this easier (3) In idual characteristics: related to enhancing the knowledge, skills and confidence of practitioner and stakeholders in MSP and service user willingness to engage and (4) Embedding and sustaining MSP: depended on strong leadership and active engagement at all levels. We found a wide range of factors affecting the implementation of MSP. These may have broader relevance for other strengths-based models of social work practice.