Evaluation of the rural generic support worker in Orkney

Context: This study will evaluate the effectiveness of the Rural Generic Support Worker (RGSW) role and its educational mapping which was undertaken by MER Consultants and Orkney College UHI in 2013. This mapping matched the Knowledge and Skills Framework to the National Occupational Standards, identifying specific training and education to allow an RGSW to practice safely. NHS Orkney have appointed new employees to the RGSW role wish to evaluate effectiveness of the education and training mapped to the role from the perspective of the employee, service users and the employer. The evaluation outcome will be shared across other remote and rural areas of Scotland.
Methods: A literature review was completed to ascertain the issues of new role development for healthcare support workers. A qualitative approach was utilised using semi-structured interviews to data collect the attitudes and feelings of the RGSW employees in terms of their training and education. Data analysis was performed using thematic analysis. Discussion will be undertaken to recommend or not recommend the continuation of the role within NHS Orkney.
Aims/Objectives: Clear articulation of how the project supports the 2020 Vision for Health and Social Care in a way that is relevant, interesting and may bring new thoughts and ideas to delegates. A positive evaluation will establish a model for knowledge and training for the RGSW contributing to clear registerable qualifications for this new role. The project outcomes and/or conclusion accurately reflect the evidence presented and draw appropriate conclusions. Evaluation is underway at the present time.

This abstract was presented at the Innovative Solutions in Remote Healthcare - 'Rethinking Remote' conference, 23-24 May 2016, Inverness, Scotland.