Evidence, policy and guidance for practice: a critical reflection on the case of social housing landlords and antisocial behaviour in Scotland

Abstract

This paper examines the role of guidance for practitioners in the evidence–policy–practice relationship through a critical reflection of the process of developing evidence-informed guidance for housing practitioners working in the area of antisocial behaviour in Scotland. The paper applies theoretical models for the use of evidence in policy and practice to the process of designing guidance; to assessing its impact; and to the potential for practice to (re-)influence the policy process. The analysis identifies challenges and lessons in terms of the blurring of professional boundaries; scope for increased rigour in practice guidance; the need for mechanisms to monitor the impact of guidance; and the need to incorporate the influence of practice more explicitly in analysis of the policy process. Adopting a more dynamic, systems approach to using evidence could enhance the effectiveness of the process.