Clients' engagement with assertive outreach services: A comparison of client and staff perceptions of engagement and its impact on later engagement

Abstract

Background: Studies have shown the effectiveness of assertive outreach services in engaging clients with severe mental health problems. However, there is little research examining this engagement process in more detail. Aims: This study developed a reliable self-report measure of engagement based on <citeref rid="b7">Hall, Meaden, Smith, & Jones' (2001)</citeref> observer-rated measure of engagement. The study investigated whether a self-report measure predicted clients' engagement with assertive outreach services 6 months later. The research also compared client and keyworker perceptions of engagement. Method: Twenty-five clients and their keyworkers, from three assertive outreach teams were interviewed. Results: The engagement measure (self-report version) was found to have good test-retest and internal reliability. Staff and client ratings were correlated at Time 1 but not at Time 2. Staff ratings at Time 1 were predictive of staff ratings at Time 2. Client ratings were not predictive of client ratings 6 months later. Items on the measures had different correlations with overall engagement for clients and staff, although there was some overlap. Conclusions: The engagement measure (self-report version) is quick, easy and reliable and can be used in conjunction with the observer version. The measure has significant clinical and research value. Declaration of interest: None