When self-directed support meets adult support and protection: findings from the evaluation of the SDS test sites in Scotland

Abstract

Purpose – This paper aims to explore the possible connections between self-directed support and adult support and protection, both of which are important policy developments in Scotland.

Design/methodology/approach – The authors draw on findings from the national evaluation of the test sites or pilots of self-directed support in Scotland and interviews at two time points with adult protection leads in the test sites. These interview data are set in the context of Scottish developments in adult support and protection.

Findings – Self-directed support and adult protection had not been joined up initially. In the three Scottish test sites those responsible for adult safeguarding had not been engaged with the changes. They were unclear about the new systems and were concerned about the implications of reduced monitoring of risks. Shared training between those implementing self-directed support and those carrying out adult protection work was viewed as a way of bridging these different areas of practice through enhancing mutual understanding and communication.

Originality/value – Policy and legislation have used the word support to provide reassurance of social protection for adults in need of care services. This paper provides new opportunities to consider the ways in which early enthusiasm for self-directed support in Scotland may have neglected the support inherent to support and protection and the ways in which some adult support and protection stakeholders seemed to be acting as “bystanders” rather than influencing new systems of self-directed support.