When planning interventions take the following into account:
- Assume the adult has mental capacity. If the adult has been assessed as not being able to engage in the assessment and /or intervention at a specific time practitioners should work in line with the Mental capacity Act and consider the use of advocacy support and/or other forms of engagement would ensure decisions are made in their best interests
- Early engagement is vital to building a relationship of trust
- Ensure interventions are delivered in a collaborative way, drawing the adult at risk in at an early stage to encourage them to help develop solutions to their own problems.
- Ensure support is delivered in a way the adult at risk and carer/s can relate to, for example, use their own examples of challenges in discussion and encourage them to share ideas and knowledge of what works for them.
- Be aware certain venues may be seen in a negative light and adults at risk may be concerned at the possible social stigmas attached to attending them.
- Clear communication is important, so they understand what to expect from a particular service and have accurate information.
- Ensure information is accessible to adults at risk with limited literacy, learning difficulties, or who may have English/Welsh as a second/additional language.
- Take into account transport; for example, living in a rural location with limited access to public transport.
- Encourage personal ownership of objectives, identifying “quick wins” to help increase confidence, and regularly reviewing progress.
(Adapted for adults from families first programme guidance Welsh Government 2017)
For further information see:
Families First Programme Guidance Welsh Government 2017 (Accessed 29/7/2019)