Appendix 9. Outcome-based specifications
Community Care Outcomes Framework
Service specifications may draw from the Community Care Outcomes Framework, in setting out the detailed requirements for services so that they will:
- meet user assessments of needs, in accordance with agreed national standards;
- meet carer assessments, in accordance with national standards;
- ensure users and carers are satisfied with their involvement in their care and support packages;
- ensure users and carers are satisfied with their care packages;
- ensure users of community care services feel safe;
- provide satisfaction with the opportunities for meaningful social interaction;
- enable carers to feel supported and capable to continue in their role;
- deliver care plan reviews carried out within agreed timescales;
- support a shift in the balance of care from institutional care to care at home,
- consider specialised functions for care homes for older people.
Children and Families - Quality Improvement Framework
Outcome measures for child and family services, which relate to personalisation, can be taken from performance targets drawn from the 'Quality Improvement Framework for Integrated Services for Children, Young People and their Families':
- safety - children and young people feel safe and being protected from abuse, neglect and harm by others at home, school and in the community;
- nurturing - children and young people live within a supportive family setting, receiving additional assistance when required, and where not possible, that they live in a caring setting, ensuring a positive childhood experience;
- health - all children and young people enjoy the highest attainable standards of physical and mental health, with access to suitable healthcare and safe and healthy lifestyles;
- achievement - children and young people can access positive learning and opportunities to maximise their skills, confidence and self-esteem;
- activity - children and young people are active with opportunities and encouragement to participate in play and recreation, including sport;
- respected and responsible - children and young people are valued and adopt positive values, and exercise personal and social responsibility;
- included - children, young people and their families having access to quality services when required and are assisted to overcome the social, educational, physical, environmental and economic barriers that create inequality.
Care Standards
There is also a broader quality framework in National Care Standards, which support the delivery of personalised services, and service specifications should incorporate specific reference to these care standards:
- Dignity - be treated with dignity and respect at all times; and enjoy a full range of social relationships;
- Privacy - have privacy and property respected; and be free from unnecessary intrusion;
- Choice - make informed choices, while recognising the rights of others to do the same; know about the range of choices;
- Safety - feel safe and secure in all aspects of life, including health and well-being; enjoy safety but not be over-protected; and be free from exploitation and abuse.
- Realising Potential - achieve all you can; make the most of your life; make full use of the resources that are available to you.
- Equality and Diversity - live an independent life, rich in purpose, meaning and personal fulfilment