Practice implications

Since Popps was first announced, promoting independence and addressing prevention in adult social care have become increasingly important. These issues are especially central to services for older people, but also have wider relevance. Some of the findings from the Popps evaluation are highly relevant to a range of initiatives the following issues have been extracted from the interim findings.

Sustainability

Sustainability of initiatives needs to be addressed as early as possible in the life of a project if partners are to be brought on board and lasting agreements are to be secured.

Partnership working

Improved partnerships between social services and the voluntary sector can also contribute to increasing the capacity of the voluntary sector to respond as a service provider.

Re-branding

In place of old models of “welfare”, services can be reconceptualised in terms of wider models of health and well-being.

Preparation and planning

Projects invariably need a longer lead-in and preparation than is anticipated, particularly if they need to demonstrate clear outcomes within a short timeframe. Engagement with people who use services as partners in the process also necessitates allocating enough time and support.

Governance

Rigorous and regular reporting processes need to be established from the outset. Clear performance management and ongoing feedback to projects can ensure ongoing adjustment and fine-tuning of projects and interventions as necessary.