Evaluation of a Social Network Intervention for Severe Mental Illness
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Open Dialogue: Development and Evaluation of a Social Network Intervention for Severe Mental Illness (ODDESSI)
IRAS ID
233483
Contact name
Natasha Clarke
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
NELFT
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 1 months, 5 days
Research summary
This application forms the first phase of an NIHR programme grant investigating the development and evaluation of Open Dialogue (OD) for severe mental illness (project ODDESSI). OD is being developed and adapted for delivery in four NHS trusts and is a service delivery model for individuals in mental health crisis, developed in Finland, which has a collaborative approach and explicitly targets social networks. Appropriate pharmaceutical, psychological or social interventions are deployed in shared decision making with social networks and healthcare professionals. This is in contrast to current models of care, in which families are rarely directly involved. Studies to date are promising and report reductions in bed usage and improved recovery rates but there is currently no high quality evidence to support a NHS-wide adoption of this model. This approach offers the possibility of a potentially effective alternative to the current model.
This work forms part a programme of work consisting of five Work Packages over a five year period. This application focuses specifically on Work Package 1, the development phase. The aim of this work stream is to adapt, refine and establish the OD intervention and the new Peer Support Worker (PSW) component for development of a protocol for the delivery of OD within existing NHS services.
We will adopt a mixed methods approach. A qualitative approach will involve conducting a mix of 1-2-1 interviews and focus groups with key stakeholders and service users to assess the implementation of OD, the development of the PSW role and practitioner adherence and fidelity to the OD model. A quantitative approach will be used to assess the feasibility of and develop the measures of OD team function. An online survey of NHS mental Health trusts in England will be used to obtain data about models of peer support being employed nationally.
REC name
London - Camden & Kings Cross Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
18/LO/0026
Date of REC Opinion
23 Feb 2018
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion