I have been at several meetings this week, probably the two that stand out the most for me this week so far, both took place today.
Firstly this morning, I was part of the ASP National Minimum Dataset meeting. Data collation and analysis is not always viewed as the most exciting of areas. However, the work being taken forward in relation to getting a nationally agreed dataset (similar to that which is now used by our Child Protection colleagues) should have some really far reaching and positive implications for ASP locally and Nationally.
Having arrived at an agreement about when and how we collect ASP data nationally, the implication is that we will be better placed to utilise this accurate and robust information locally, to better understand what is happening within our ASP processes, what our outcomes are in relation to action taken under the ASP Act within our respective areas and assist with resource planning relating to ASP.
Nationally, the new dataset should provide opportunities to better benchmark, including encouraging us to identify and try to understand what might lie behind some of the statistical differences that may be identified as a result of the new way of collating data. Entering its initial data gathering phase in April 2023, the new dataset will hopefully will go on to assist Adult Protection Committees and Chief Officers Groups throughout Scotland to better understand the local and national ASP picture.
This afternoon, I attended the (relatively) new National ASP Implementation Group. This Group came into being following change brought about by the revision of the Code of Practice – which supports practice in relation to the Adult Support and Protection (Scotland) Act 2007 and the suite of new ASP Guidance published by the Scottish Government in 2022.
This Group is comprised of a main Group and 4 Sub Groups who are working together on several relevant ASP themes; Chronologies, Self-evaluation and Learning, Advocacy and the Voice of the Service User and Inquiries, Investigatory Powers and the role of the Council Officer. It is anticipated that the work of the Group and its Sub Groups will have hugely positive implications for ASP work across its themes. The enthusiasm and energy for the improvement work was clear at the meeting.
If you work in a role that has a link to Adult Support and Protection and have an interest in being involved – there are still opportunities to become involved. Contact me via email in the first instance at: brenda.walker@iriss.org.uk