The development of care co-ordination services in Scotland: a report to Care Co-ordination Network UK

Abstract

First paragraph: The modernisation of welfare agenda emphasises the need for flexible and individualised services which are accountable and transparent. This may involve breaking down existing agency boundaries (Perri 6 et al, 2002; Riddell and Tett, 2004) in pursuit of 'holistic governance'. Joined-up working is usually justified in terms of delivering improved services, however, for those whose lives are already extremely challenging, the additional burden of service co-ordination may make parents' lives worse rather than better. The fundamental idea underpinning care co-ordination is that establishing a workable network of services delivered by a range of agencies, including health, education and social work, should not be the sole remit of the parent, who already has the task of nurturing the disabled child along with other family and employment responsibilities. The key worker acts as a source of information and advice to the parent, a link to the other professionals working with the family, as well as someone who can offer both practical and emotional support, leaving the parent with more time to enjoy family life. In addition, key workers are charged with ensuring that inter-agency working is effective, avoiding some of the pitfalls which may occur such as inter-agency disputes over professional boundaries and funding.