Multi-agency training for quality: reflections and recommendations

Abstract

Clinical governance within the National Health Service (NHS) and best value across local authorities in England have emphasised the need for decisions and actions being demonstrably evidence based. In an attempt to progress these related initiatives and facilitate a closer working relationship between NHS Trusts and local government departments, a multi-agency and interprofessional training event on evidence-based practice (EBP) was organised across three boroughs within Tyne and Wear. While there are advantages to different agencies learning and working in partnership to develop quality systems for health improvement, the reality of introducing EBP concepts and creating an evaluative culture within and across public sector organisations represents a major challenge. This article has adopted a case study approach to describe the key lessons learnt through critically reflecting on the planning and delivery of this training event, and it is hoped that it will be of value to others attempting similar projects in the future.

• Evidence-based Practice
• Partnership Working
• Staff Training