Continuous Service Quality Improvement and Change Management for Children and Young People with Autism and Their Families: A Model for Change

ABSTRACT

A case study approach was used that included data collection from a wide range of sources, e.g., a stakeholder conference, audit, questionnaires, and evaluative feedback from carers, families, staff, and Autism Champions. Integrated pathways for patient care improvement were developed. Families and carers were involved in raising awareness of the needs of children with autism and policy development to meet these needs. Increased involvement from interdisciplinary working strengthened the work of the Recognising Autism Management Programme (RAMP) and improved patient care outcomes. The interventions undertaken by the RAMP resulted in improved patient /carer satisfaction, the reduction of challenging behaviour, complaints, and treatment refusal. The Autism Champions played a significant role in signposting resources and the cascading of education and practice development. All children and young people (0–25 years) on the Autism Spectrum and their families benefit from safe, individualised, high quality care in a supportive environment. Education of staff and families and targeted actions in adapting attitudes and behaviours in communication and care management will result in positive experiences for staff, children and families and financial benefit to the NHS Trust by reducing cancellation of appointments and operating theatre slots.

KEYWORDS:

• Children
• young people
• autism
• communication
• reasonable adjustments
• recognition

Acknowledgments

Children and young people with autism and their parents/carers attending RMCH. Therapeutic & Specialised Play Services at RMCH. Senior Managers and Ward/Department Managers, RMCH. Mari Saki and Wendy Atkinson, Greater Manchester Autism Consortium Group: National Autism Society.Chris Barson; Positive About Autism: Emily Broughton, Assistant Clinical Effectiveness Manager; Alison Hunter, Speech and Language Therapist; Dr. Judith Short, Consultant Anaesthetist Sheffield Children’s Hospitals re: www.widgit.com. We would also like to thank The University of Salford and Dr. Janice Grant for her continued support.

Declaration of Interest

The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of this article.