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Designing a stress management intervention in social services

Article Information:

Title:

Designing a stress management intervention in social services

Author(s):

Margaret Coffey, Lindsey Dugdill, Andy Tattersall

Journal:

International Journal of Workplace Health Management

Year:

2009

Volume:

2

Issue:

2

Page:

98 - 114


ISSN:

1753-8351


DOI:

10.1108/17538350910970192

Publisher:

Emerald Group Publishing Limited

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Abstract:

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to present an evaluation of the design of a stress management intervention (rather than an evaluation of the implementation and outcomes of the programme).

Design/methodology/approach – This paper uses data generated from a large study carried out in two social service departments in the UK. The study is carried out in three phases: first, a problem diagnosis phase, comprising the development of a questionnaire and survey (n=1,234); second, focus groups (n=16) to develop interventions in a participatory way from the baseline established; and finally, an evaluation of the processes involved in phases one and two.

Findings – Key barriers include: major changes are currently taking place within the organisations; staff are distrustful of management and sceptical of the value of the research; lack of resources; and difficulties translating the findings into actions. Key factors necessary for success include: strong commitment from senior management; willingness by staff to participate; realistic expectations, responsibilities and time-frames agreed at the outset of the project. Key health promotion outcomes achieved include: improved health literacy; changes to organisational policies and practices and staff empowerment and participation.

Research limitations/implications – Future research designing and implementing stress management interventions can draw on the evidence from this study in order to improve intervention effectiveness.

Practical implications – Evaluating the design of the stress management intervention has identified: what worked well, what did not, and in what context; difficulties associated with managing change; and unanticipated successes.

Originality/value – This paper provides an overview of the conditions which need to be created in order to achieve potentially successful outcomes and improve intervention effectiveness.

Keywords:

Organizational chance, Project evaluation, Social service personnel, Social services, Stress, United Kingdom


Article Type:

Research paper


Article URL:

http://www.emeraldinsight.com/10.1108/17538350910970192

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