Exploring the understanding and use of 'case busts' within two assertive outreach teams

Lynch, Maeve Ann (2014). Exploring the understanding and use of 'case busts' within two assertive outreach teams. University of Birmingham. M.Res.

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Abstract

Assertive Outreach (AO) services have been a key part of mental health services in the UK since 1999 with the primary aim of improving engagement with services and treatments and reducing the need for care. However an implicit key aim, that of risk management and reduction, has as yet received relatively little research attention. Case busts are one process introduced to AO teams in the West Midlands in response to concerns about risk. They are a multi-disciplinary team meeting that proposes to facilitate communication and to inform care. This study sets out to explore the experience and understanding of case busts for AO workers in two teams in the West Midlands from a range of professional perspectives. Data were analysed using template analysis. Four overarching themes emerged from the data: case busts: information sharing is a valuable function of the case bust; case busts are not a fully shared process; case busts are a process in need of structure and leadership; case busts only have a clear consistent impact on defensive risk management practice. It is recommended that formulation method in case busts is reviewed and that psychologists consider how to provide leadership in case busts within AO teams.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Masters by Research > M.Res.)

Award Type:

Masters by Research > M.Res.

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