research methods

Reducing High Placement Costs (Solihull) Department for Children, Schools and Families, 2008

This case study describes how Solihull's high unit costs for placements for children in care were reduced; increasing resources available to improve the quality of care and delivering outcomes that better met the needs of children. It sets out the steps that Solihull took to address the situation and achieve 11% savings on the placements budget. These improvements were achieved through a combination of developing the authority's foster care service, redefining the commissioning and contracting team into a professional procurement service, and improving management of the external market.

Exploring disability, family formation and break-up: reviewing the evidence

The research was carried out by Stephen McKay and Harriet Clarke at the University of Birmingham on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and the Office for Disability Issues (ODI). The report provides evidence on the effect that being a disabled adult, or having a disabled child, has on rates of family break-up, on repartnering or having children.

Evaluation of the Scottish Recovery Indicator pilot in five health board areas in Scotland

The Scottish Recovery Indicator (SRI) is a tool designed to allow an assessment of how far organisations providing mental health services are meeting their users needs in terms of their rights to equality, social inclusion and support to recover.

This paper details the methodology and findings of an SRI pilot project.

Social networks and employability

Report investigating social networks as a factor in labour market proximity and likelihood of gaining sustained employment. Qualitative methods were used to explore these networks and glean new knowledge of processes underpinning people's participation in employment. The principal aim of the research was to provide employability agencies with a better understanding of how to support and advise clients in a holistic manner.

Guidance on meaningful interaction: how encouraging positive relationships between people can help build community cohesion

This guidance is Communities and Local Government's first attempt to set out what we know about meaningful interaction, based on research findings and the views of expert practitioners. It is aimed at local cohesion practitioners and policy planners and includes some good practice.