health and health care

Making the economic case for the promotion of mental well-being and the prevention of mental Health problems

This report begins by asking why there should be investment in promotion and prevention. It then summarises what is known and gives examples of study findings on wellbeing, early intervention,, depression, suicide and workplace health promotion. Ongoing and future evaluations are noted and the need for more European assessments emphasised.

Shifting care from hospital to the community in Europe: Economic challenges and opportunities

An introduction gives the history of how in most European countries for many decades large institutions dominated provision for people with severe and chronic disabilities, including those with mental health problems, and how this changed. Trends in the balance of care, changes in provision, and policies to develop community care and the allocation of resources are described, challenges listed and opportunities outlined, ending with a conclusion that research on progress in this area in Europe has been limited.

Dignity in care web site

Dignity in Care is a campaign being run by the Department of Health's website in the UK. It "aims to eliminate tolerance of indignity in health and social care services through raising awareness and inspiring people to take action." The focus of the campaign has mainly been on older people but has now been extended to include people with mental health needs. The website provides further information on the different aspects of the campaign, including relevant publications.

Pain management for older people with learning difficulties and dementia

In general, the pain relief needs of older people with dementia are not adequately met. The aim of this research was to determine whether the same unsatisfactory treatment also applies to people with learning difficulties who have dementia and, if so, to make recommendations for improving practice. The research team was based at the Centre for Research on Families and Relationships, University of Edinburgh, and the Dementia Services Development Centre, University of Stirling.

Capability Framework in Scotland for Nurses who Care for Children and Young People who are Looked After Away from Home

The Capability Framework defines a common set of capabilities for nurses built around five key areas: Practising Ethically, Knowledge for Practice, Leadership for Practice, Multi-Professional Approach, Care Delivery & Intervention, it will help the development of educational programmes to ensure that LACNs are fully competent and capable to meet the challenges they face. It has been developed by NHS Education for Scotland (NES) and the Scottish Government Health Directorate.

Better care every step of the way

More than 40% of care homes in Scotland need to improve the support they offer people with life-limiting illnesses and those who require palliative and end of life care, according to a new report from Scotland’s care watchdog.

This report reflects the findings of 1036 inspections and three investigations carried out by the Care Commission at care homes for older people between April 2007 and March 2008.

The healthcare quality strategy for Scotland: draft strategy document

Draft strategy document that sets out the proposals for a Quality Strategy for NHS Scotland. These proposals are based on knowledge about what works well in Scotland, and builds on the range of excellent progress and work underway already at local, regional and national levels. The strategy has been developed through wide ranging discussions with the people working in NHS Scotland, and with patients and carers.