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Abstract
In an era of evidence-based practice, outcome measurement is crucial. The nature of what getting better means to service users and staff and hence what outcomes might be measured is considered. A descriptive study is reported about users' ( n = 20) and staff's ( n = 10) constructions of what getting better means to them. The results show that both staff and users have quite complex multi-faceted notions of getting better. It was construed as involving not only improved mental state, but also improved well-being and relationships, empowerment, confidence and self worth, greater engagement in work and activities, being able to cope with every day life, having access to help and support, improved material well-being and improved physical health. Staff rated activities of daily living and access to help and support as more important than did users. Users rated improved material and physical well-being as more important than did staff. The results are considered in the context of a recovery paradigm. The need to incorporate such broad notions of 'getting better' in care planning, service provision and outcome measurement is discussed.