Staff Training Research Articles

Nurse’s Knowledge Sharing in Time of COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review and Expert Opinion

This study aimed to review the effective factors, tools and methods of knowledge sharing used by nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic. This mix-methods study was conducted in 2023 and included two stages. In the first stage, a systematic review of relevant literature was conducted. In the second stage, a panel of 10 experts justified and appended the findings of the previous stage. The main source of knowledge during the COVID-19 epidemic was social networks followed by official authorities, online training courses, media and colleagues. Different factors affecting knowledge sharing among nurses categorised into process-oriented factors, Human-oriented factors, Technology-oriented factors and organisation-oriented factors. Various known and innovative methods have been used by nurses to share knowledge during the COVID-19 pandemic including utilising social networks, Telementoring, team approaches for new staff and continuous training in line with the latest scientific findings. Nurses used both formal and informal sources to explore evidence supporting evolving clinical practices and social networks were a prominent source of knowledge during the pandemic. By recognising the significance of affecting factors, healthcare organisations can enhance nurses’ ability to effectively share knowledge, ultimately improving patient outcomes and overall healthcare response during similar crises in the future.

Public school teachers' perceptions of internet gaming problems among students: current status and challenges

Objectives This study aimed to identify and understand the challenges faced by public school teachers regarding issues related to Internet gaming.Methods An electronic questionnaire was administered to 400 public school teachers in the Saitama Prefecture from September to November 2021. A total of 352 valid responses were obtained. The survey content included teachers' knowledge of gaming disorders, whether their students experienced gaming-related problems, difficulties perceived by teachers, how they discovered the problems, how they dealt with them, the challenges they faced in dealing with the problems, and desired support. Data were analyzed based on the teachers' roles, responsibilities, type of school, and knowledge of gaming difficulties. Fisher's exact probability tests were used to determine significance, and adjusted standardized residuals were used to assess the differences between groups.Results Nearly 63.1% of the teachers already had knowledge of gaming disorders, and 49.4% acknowledged the existence of students with gaming problems. The most common reasons for discovering problems were disrupted daily rhythm (51.7%) and increased tardiness and early dismissal (34.7%). The main actions taken to address gaming problems were "consultation and information sharing with families" (48.6%) and "individual guidance by teachers" (34.1%). Approximately half of the teachers indicated that they regularly experienced difficulties in activities related to prevention, early detection, student support, and interaction with parents. Specific challenges included limited guidance and involvement with families (61.4%) and the inability to intervene and provide effective support (62.5%). Teachers' support included programs for addiction recovery (56.8%), awareness programs for parents (56.0%), and staff training to increase the understanding of gaming disorders (50.5%). The responses varied according to teacher role and school type, indicating that implementation rates and difficulties were higher in middle schools.Conclusion We found that teachers tended to view internet gaming problems as family problems and provide complementary support for home education. Teachers also found it difficult to deal with students with gaming problems. Depending on the teacher's role in the school and the type of school, requests for support varied. Elementary and special-needs schools needed teaching materials that could be used for classroom and school-wide instruction and guidance for concerned students and their parents; junior high schools needed a consultation system with school counselors and other professionals and cooperation with healthcare; and high schools needed measures and support, including social support.

‘Quality assessment of infection control measures in delivery points in a tribal district of Maharashtra’ - An observational study

ABSTRACT Background: Maternal and neonatal mortality rates remain alarmingly high in low-resource settings, with infections acquired during childbirth contributing significantly to this burden. Effective infection control measures at delivery points are crucial for mitigating these risks. This observational study aimed to assess the quality of infection control practices in delivery points in a tribal district of Maharashtra, India. Methods: A community-based study was conducted at delivery points across eight talukas in Palghar district. A total of 15 delivery points were selected using convenient sampling, representing three levels of facilities (L1, L2 and L3) which are healthcare facilities divided on the basis of the provision of services by Maternal and Newborn Health Toolkit. Data was collected using the validated LaQshya programme’s checklist through direct observation from June 1st to June 18th, 2021. Compliance with infection control protocols was scored based on predefined criteria. Results: The majority of L1 delivery points showed non-compliance in criteria such as surface microbiological surveillance and monitoring of infection control practices, 20–40% of Delivery points also showed non-compliance in the availability of personal protective equipment and waste management practices. Conclusion: This study highlights the need for targeted interventions to improve infection control practices in delivery points, particularly in lower-level facilities. Strengthening adherence to established protocols, enhancing staff training, ensuring availability of essential supplies and implementing robust monitoring systems are imperative for reducing the burden of maternal and neonatal infections and improving healthcare outcomes in resource-constrained settings.

Economic impact case study of a wearable medical device for the diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnoea

BackgroundAcuPebble SA100 (‘AcuPebble’) is a novel wearable medical device to diagnose obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). This paper investigates the potential economic impact of the technology in the UK through cost savings analysis, and the redirection of savings into further diagnoses.MethodsA cost comparison study was conducted, comparing AcuPebble to the standard diagnostic approach of home respiratory polygraphy (HRP) and in-clinic polysomnography (PSG), estimating the net benefit value (NBV) and return on investment (ROI). Cohort size was varied to model the effects of volume discounted pricing and staff training costs. To demonstrate the potential for cost savings, data on the healthcare costs of undiagnosed OSA patients were used to quantify the benefit of increased OSA diagnosis rates, as facilitated by AcuPebble.ResultsFor 500 uses of AcuPebble, the NBV in the diagnostic pathway over one year would be in excess of £101,169, increasing to £341,665 for 1,500 uses, £1,263,993 for 5,000 uses, and to £2,628,198 for 10,000 uses, with ROIs of 2.02, 3.03, 5.05, and 6.56, respectively. Given an initial cohort of 1,500 patients, 4,555 extra AcuPebble studies could be completed by redirecting resources from HRP/PSG. Direct cost savings to the NHS from resultant lower undiagnosed rates could be between £24,147 and £4,707,810, based on the cost per use and the percentage of tests that result in a positive diagnosis (varied from 25 to 75% positives).ConclusionsAcuPebble presents an opportunity for substantial healthcare savings, enabling an increase in the number of people tested, diagnosed and treated for OSA.

Empowering sports facilities and sports physiotherapy performance with Integrated Management Information System (IMIS): Enhanced user experience and service quality

This study investigates the development of Integrated Management Information Systems (IMIS) to improve user experience and service quality in sports facilities. This research conducts a systematic review (2018-2023) of 7 articles from Scopus, Google Scholar, and Semantic Scholar to explore how IMIS can address evolving industry needs. The system facilitates user access to information, online transactions, and feedback mechanisms while enabling personalization and recommendations. However, the review also highlights the potential of IMIS to revolutionize sports physiotherapy through enhanced athlete care, data-driven treatment plans, and streamlined operations. Successful IMIS implementation requires careful planning, stakeholder involvement, and continuous adaptation to emerging technologies like AI and IoT. By overcoming challenges and embracing opportunities, IMIS can usher in a new era of personalized, effective, and efficient athlete care. IMIS implementation involves evaluating facility needs, staff training, and introducing the system to users. Data security and privacy are paramount. Future integration of AI, IoT, and mobile applications holds promise for further enhancing IMIS effectiveness. Overall, IMIS implementation has demonstrably improved user experience and service quality. By prioritizing user experience and adapting to technological advancements, sports facilities can remain competitive in a digital age.

Exploring the role of school psychologists/counsellors in addressing bullying: Current practices and suggested future directions

Bullying is widely accepted as a significant issue confronting schools across the globe. The potential short and long-term consequences of bullying for involved students include negative academic and mental health impacts. It is known that a whole-school approach is required to effectively manage bullying. As such, school psychologists and counsellors are well-placed to play an important role in the prevention of and response to bullying in their workplace schools. By virtue of their training and skill-set, school psychologists and counsellors could be involved in the training of other staff, educating and collaborating with stakeholders, and counselling the involved students utilising methods such as motivational interviewing. In order for these staff members to play an effective role in bullying prevention and intervention, they require professional development on bullying, a supportive leadership team and a workplace that provides a clear delineation of their role.

Analyzing the Impact of E-Service Quality and Information Quality on Student Satisfaction: A Case Study at Lemondial Business School

This study examines the influence of e-service quality and information quality on student satisfaction at Lemondial Business School, focusing on The Genius portal. Utilizing a quantitative approach, data were collected from 80 students through a structured questionnaire. Results indicate significant positive correlations between e-service quality (r = .732) and information quality (r = .785) with student satisfaction. Multiple regression analysis reveals both e-service quality and information quality as significant predictors of student satisfaction, with coefficients of 0.452 and 0.578, respectively. Qualitative insights highlight the importance of responsiveness and accurate information. Recommendations include enhancing staff training, implementing systematic content reviews, and establishing feedback mechanisms to improve digital learning environments. This research contributes to understanding these relationships in an Indonesian higher education context.

Enhancing Patient Safety: The Role of Interdisciplinary Teams in Reducing Blood Culture Contamination.

Blood cultures are vital to diagnostic workups among many hospitalized patients, providing valuable information about bloodstream infections (BSIs), which cause roughly 250 000 deaths annually between North America and Europe. Despite advances in health care, blood culture contamination remains a substantial problem, with deleterious effects on patient mortality, patient and hospital costs, and microbial resistance. This article reviews the repercussions of blood culture contamination on the health care system and delineates evidence-based strategies to decrease contamination rates. To reduce blood culture contamination rates, our health care facility undertook a quality improvement initiative. A task force was created, consisting of leadership from the laboratory, phlebotomy, nursing, pathology, internal medicine teams, emergency medical services, and others. Measures included comprehensive staff training, standardization of protocols and supplies across facilities, and the introduction of waste tubes and smaller-volume chlorhexidine applicators for skin preparation. Data on blood culture contamination rates were collected before and after implementation. Prior to the intervention, the average monthly blood culture contamination rate across our facilities was 3.76%. Following the intervention, this rate decreased significantly to 2.07%, representing a reduction of 44.95%. Statistical analysis revealed a strong association between the implemented interventions and the decreased contamination rates, with a chi-square value of 62.3, 1 degree of freedom, and a P value of less than .001. These results indicate that the interventions were highly effective. Furthermore, the reduced contamination rates were sustained in the subsequent months, consistently remaining below 2%. The study demonstrated a substantial reduction in blood culture contamination rates through targeted interventions, highlighting the efficacy of combining evidence-based strategies with interdisciplinary teamwork to improve patient care outcomes.

Communication barriers to optimal access to emergency rooms according to deaf and hard-of-hearing patients and health care workers: A mixed-methods study.

This study aimed to identify communication barriers between health care workers (HCWs) and deaf and hard-of-hearing (DHH) patients. Both perspectives are offered to provide a comprehensive understanding. Two consecutive studies were conducted from 2018 to 2021. Study 1 comprised mixed methods, employing a cross-sectional survey (n = 288) and in-depth interviews (n = 9) with DHH participants, utilizing accessible tools including sign language. Study 2 involved a cross-sectional survey of health care emergency workers without hearing loss (N = 391). The perceived self-efficacy of DHH patients, and not their hearing loss, was linked with their ability to communicate independently with HCWs. No significant differences in successful communication with these providers were found vis-à-vis mode of communication utilized (sign language, writing, interpreter, etc.). In the qualitative findings, DHH patients noted two urgent care barriers: HCWs' communication unfamiliarity and patients' communication accessibility issues. Quantitative findings indicated a main barrier: difficulties in communicating with HCWs in general (57%) and specifically in the emergency room (ER; 65%). Only 28.8% reported being able to independently communicate with ER staff. Health care providers were not familiar with effective communication strategies when treating these patients. Respondents indicating that communication was not a barrier to care were mainly administrative staff (54.55%), compared to nurses (32.74%) and physicians (22.58%). Communication solutions are needed to improve access to health services, especially in emergencies. Providing medical staff training on effective communication strategies with these patients could simplify interactions and reduce the reliance on hearing family members, potentially improving medical care. Implementing a communication policy for frontline staff, along with the use of visual aids, is crucial. Health care professionals may not realize that small changes can greatly improve communication with DHH patients.

Adolescent reproductive health care services: knowledge, perspectives, and challenges among service providers in Makurdi, Benue State Nigeria

Adolescence is a phase of life characterized by several reproductive health challenges that require support to navigate. However, access to adolescent and youth-friendly health service (AYFHS) centers to provide this support is limited. Perspective of healthcare workers (HCW) towards understanding the challenges to service provision has not been systematically documented. This study therefore documents the perspectives of HCWs on the types of services accessed by adolescents, and associated challenges in Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria. The facility-based descriptive qualitative study used an in-depth interview guide among program officers in the 11 youth-friendly health centers. The interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed thematically. The provision of HIV prevention services and AYFHS was appropriate while adolescents have preferences for facilities where their confidentiality is protected, and other needs are met. Reported challenges were lack of privacy, high cost of transportation to facilities, high staff attrition, poor awareness of the facilities and services, and parental consent. Suggestions for improvement included prolonged retention of youth-friendly trained staff, better client confidentiality, and economic empowerment of the adolescents to access services when needed. While the providers’ perspective on AYFHS for adolescents was positive, related challenges were also identified. Government and other stakeholders should collaborate to ensure the right environment for accessibility and utilization of AYFHS.

The role of electronic data capture systems in clinical trials: Streamlining data integrity and improving compliance with FDA and ICH/GCP guidelines

This study investigates the transformative role of Electronic Data Capture (EDC) systems in clinical trials, emphasizing their impact on data integrity, compliance with regulatory standards, and the efficiency of trial processes. The purpose of the research was to critically analyze how EDC systems align with FDA and ICH/GCP guidelines, addressing the complexities of modern clinical trials. By conducting a detailed literature review, the study explores the benefits, challenges, and technological advancements associated with EDC systems. Key findings highlight the significant advantages of EDC systems in enhancing data accuracy, real-time monitoring, and facilitating regulatory compliance through secure data management and audit trails. The study also identifies several challenges, including high implementation costs, data privacy concerns, and integration issues with other digital trial technologies. Technological advancements, such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and decentralized trial models, are explored as promising solutions to these limitations, offering new avenues for optimizing clinical trial management. The study concludes that EDC systems have revolutionized clinical trials, streamlining data collection and analysis while ensuring compliance with stringent regulatory requirements. It recommends continued investment in EDC technologies, enhanced training for trial staff, and the integration of cutting-edge innovations to ensure future clinical trials' success.

Optimizing Efficiency: A Comparative Analysis of Project Management Tools with a Business Case Study of Trello Implementation

This paper provides functionality, usability, and suitability for various business environments of several well- known project management software are all thoroughly compared in this study. This review aims to highlight each tool's advantages and disadvantages while providing useful advice for companies looking to streamline their project management processes. The paper includes a business case study that focuses on the use of Trello in a digital marketingcompany in addition to comparative analysis. The company used Trello to improve its project management skills after encountering difficulties with task tracking, communication, and project deadlines. The installation of Trello is described in depth in the paper, from initial setup and customization to staff acceptance and training, including the incorporation of key performance indicators (KPIs) to gauge the tool's effectiveness. Task completion rate, project delivery time, customer happiness, teamwork, and campaign success indicators are among the KPIs considered in this study. The results show that task management and teamwork have significantly improved, leading to better project outcomes. Nevertheless, difficulties including early staff reluctance, a learning curve, and Trello's constrained reporting features were also faced and resolved. Ultimately, this paper addresses the challenges and solutions that come up during the implementation process and shows how choosing the appropriate project management tool may change company processes, increase team productivity, and deliver measurable advantages. Keywords: Project Management, stakeholders, Project management tools and techniques (PMTT), Planning Methods, Project scheduling

Event Operation and Management in Risk Assessment for Outdoor Food Bazaar Events

This study evaluates risk management in organizing a food bazaar held in an open field at the Jakarta International Velodrome from May 31 to June 2, 2024. The research methodology includes direct observation, structured interviews with the organizing committee, and document analysis. The assessment results indicate that the event falls into the Very High Risk category for safety aspects, with potential hazards such as smuggling, theft, and fire. Additionally, the cleanliness of the area and healthcare facilities are deemed inadequate, categorized as High Risk. The limitations of hygiene facilities such as toilets and sinks, as well as the risk of dehydration, were also identified. This study recommends enhanced preparation and attention to risk management for similar events in the future to ensure the safety and comfort of visitors. By identifying, analyzing, and evaluating risks more comprehensively, it is hoped that event organizers can minimize potential hazards and improve the quality of future events. The study also emphasizes the importance of collaboration among various stakeholders, including the government, event organizers, security personnel, and healthcare services, to create a safe and comfortable event environment. Measures such as safety training for staff, adequate placement of healthcare facilities, and improved security systems can reduce the risks faced by visitors. Additionally, the study highlights the need for effective communication with the audience regarding safety and health protocols to be followed during the event. The implementation of technology such as crowd monitoring applications and early detection systems can also be a solution in managing risks more effectively.

Exploring autism-friendly initiatives in Australian airports: ‘A lot better than a lot of airports that I’ve experienced’

ABSTRACT This study examines the effectiveness of autism-friendly initiatives implemented at two major Australian airports: Sydney and Gold Coast. As accessible air travel is essential for the social inclusion of Autistic individuals, ensuring that airports meet their specific needs is critical. Focusing on the lived experiences of Autistic adults and parents of Autistic children, the research seeks to assess how well these initiatives align with the needs of Autistic travellers and to identify any opportunities to further enhance airport accessibility. Through reflexive thematic analysis of interviews with 13 participants, the study generated themes related to persistent sensory challenges, the importance of planning and accessible quiet spaces, and the significant benefits associated with the Hidden Disability Sunflower lanyard. Although participants acknowledged the strides made in improving accessibility, they also highlighted areas that would benefit from further attention, particularly in communication and proactive support from airport personnel. The findings emphasise the pivotal role airports play in either facilitating or hindering the travel experiences and opportunities of Autistic individuals. The study concludes with a call for policy and practice reforms, advocating for the broader implementation of standardised autism-friendly initiatives and comprehensive staff training to ensure a consistently supportive environment for Autistic travellers.

Is the delivery of National Disability Insurance Scheme in Australia through quasi markets achieving the right outcomes in vision rehabilitation services? A qualitative study

Purpose Despite being a pioneering social initiative worldwide, Australia’s National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) still presents unresolved issues for individuals with vision-related disability regarding its processes and outcomes. This study evaluates how well the NDIS markets are perceived to achieve efficiency, responsiveness, choice, quality, and equity within the vision rehabilitation sector, and identified factors facilitating or hindering desired outcomes. Materials and methods This qualitative study conducted 22 semi-structured interviews involving individuals with vision disability, service providers, peak-body and professional-body representatives, and an NDIS planner. Results Findings across stakeholder groups show minimal variation. The NDIS’s quasi-market approach has improved participants’ choices over ways to utilise and manage their funding and consequently provided them with a sense of control and empowerment. However, inefficiencies persist due to insufficient competition, workforce shortages, price caps, information asymmetry, high transaction costs, gaming behaviour, inadequate staff training, complex and lengthy processes, and eligibility concerns. Supportive factors include effective advocacy, pragmatic regulations to maintain quality, opportunities for innovation, and service providers’ motivation for cost-effectiveness. Conclusions While NDIS markets have made significant strides in enhancing participants’ choice and control, our findings underscore the need for continued refinement to achieve broader social objectives and long-term sustainability for individuals with vision-related disability.

Performance Analysis of Higher Education Public Service Agencies: A Case Study of the Indonesian Civil Pilot Academy Banyuwangi

A Public Service Agency, known by the Indonesian nomenclature as Badan Layanan Umum (BLU), is a government institution with the autonomy to manage its finances effectively and efficiently and provide public services. BLU is crucial for delivering essential services in Indonesia, including specialized education in the transportation sector. Despite their significance, BLU institutions like the Indonesian Civil Pilot Academy Banyuwangi face operational inefficiencies, financial constraints, and human resource challenges that hinder organizational performance. This study investigates these challenges, focusing on how financial management, human resource issues, and operational inefficiencies affect educational outcomes. The research employed a qualitative case study approach using semi-structured interviews, document analysis, and field observations. Data were collected from key stakeholders, including students, lecturers, and staff, to assess organizational performance in the educational process, human resource management, and general operations. Findings reveal that while facilities and educator engagement have improved, issues such as lecturer absenteeism, student input quality, and the need for continuous staff training persist. This study contributes to the body of knowledge by demonstrating the critical role of Total Quality Management (TQM) and Cross-Functional Integration (CFI) in improving public service agency performance. The research offers practical recommendations for enhancing lecturer performance, refining student admissions, and developing powerful individuals through sustainable training. This expectation can give Public Service Agency management an outlook for increasing performance organization and support mission, as well as the Agency of Human Resources Development (BPSDM) on Transportation vision.

The contribution of public libraries in strengthening digital citizenship in Egyptian society – an exploratory study

Purpose This study aims to assess the involvement of Egyptian public libraries in supporting digital citizenship and propose a vision to leverage their role in promoting digital citizenship culture, aligning with Egypt Vision 2030 for sustainable development. Design/methodology/approach A questionnaire was used to sample 21 public library managers in Egypt. The study adopted a descriptive-analytic approach, measuring library readiness infrastructure, strategic planning for digital citizenship support and participation ratings on nine dimensions of digital citizenship as defined by the Ribble model. Findings Results indicated a moderate level of participation overall (average score of 1.72), with high levels in dimensions like digital access and digital literacy but much lower levels in others, particularly digital law and digital health and safety. Library readiness was found to have a positive effect on the level of digital citizenship promotion. Research limitations/implications The small sample size may limit generalizability. Future research should explore best practices for digital citizenship programming in libraries and strategies for overcoming implementation barriers. Practical implications The study underscores the need for Egyptian public libraries to enhance their readiness and participation in promoting digital citizenship. This requires investment in digital resources, staff training, community outreach and collaboration with educational institutions and community partners. Originality/value This study provides insights into the role of public libraries in promoting digital citizenship in the context of a developing country’s national vision. It offers a framework for libraries worldwide to assess and enhance their digital citizenship initiatives.

'It's designed for someone who is not me': A reflexive thematic analysis of the unmet healthcare support needs in UK autistic adults aged 65 years and over.

Autistic people often face both physical and mental health challenges throughout their lives, which can lead to a higher risk of premature death due to health inequalities. However, we know very little about the healthcare experiences of autistic older adults. In this study, we talked with 19 autistic adults aged 65 years or above living in the United Kingdom. We found these main themes: (1) A lifetime of being misunderstood; (2) Autistic people falling between the gaps; (3) Processing autism diagnosis in later life; (4) Concerns about service pressures and scarce resources; (5) Lack of continuity of care, empathy and understanding; (6) Anxiety, alexithymia and sensory overload; and (7) Reduced social support and concerns for the future. Themes show that autistic older adults face unique healthcare access challenges because services don't consider their lifelong experiences of social exclusion. Participants also worried about age-related decline coupled with reduced social support, which makes it harder for them to get support. To address these challenges, healthcare services should provide more targeted support, make policies and funding consistent, and improve healthcare provision by providing staff training. Importantly, they must also speak with autistic older adults so they can advocate for their current and future care.

Evaluating village financial governance in top tourism destinations

Village fund management is important for village economy and welfare. Village funds in Gresik Regency, Indonesia In particular, for the 2022 period, the revenue budget is IDR. 2,355,638,000 in Pangkahkulon village, while Rp. 9,865,701,000 for Sekapuk village, demonstrating the principles of accountability and transparency for effective and sustainable development. Accountability and transparency in village fund management ensure clear financial reporting, community participation, and openness of information, despite still facing obstacles such as lack of resources and regulations. Lack of community participation reduces accountability, transparency in achieving good financial governance in 3 villages in Gresik Regency. This study proposes to assess the impact of financial governance in Sekapuk, Pangkahkulon, and Sidokumpul Villages, focusing on accountability, transparency, and community participation. Despite progress, challenges including resource constraints and regulatory changes remain. This study provides in-depth insights into the effectiveness of village financial management systems, emphasizing the importance of community participation in improving accountability and transparency and building public trust. This study explores the implementation of good financial governance in three Gresik villages, focusing on accountability, transparency, and community participation. The study design uses a phenomenological approach to understand perceptions related to transparency and accountability in village fund management in Gresik Tourism Villages through interviews and observations. Primary data were collected from village officials, and analysis was conducted using NVivo 12 Plus, prioritizing transparency and community participation. This study found that accountability in Gresik Tourism Villages requires a transparent and efficient financial system. The SISKEUDES application experienced technical problems that affected reporting, so technical improvements and staff training were needed. Transparency and community participation in meetings and discussion forums are key to increasing trust and effectiveness in village fund management. Thus, in achieving Good Financial Governance in Gresik Tourism Villages, a financial system that is accountable, transparent, and involves community participation is needed. Information technology, regular training, and supervision with NGOs are important for efficiency and transparency, and discussion forums strengthen community trust.

What Makes a Home.Evaluating a Novel Low Support Homeless Accommodation Model Using Co-design Methods

Abstract Background Homelessness is a global challenge, with a prevalence of 4%; the problem is underestimated due to limitations in data collection. In Ireland, 1% of the population, including children, adults, and families, experience homelessness due to housing shortages and systemic complexities. Homeless accommodation is defined as emergency and temporary; the wording is used interchangeably. The ETHOS typology of homelessness comprises two dimensions - housing-focused and support-focused. Supports range from high to low levels. This study evaluated an emergency housing accommodation with low support to assess its feasibility and impact. Methods Previous residents of an urban residential area with low support [introduced in August 2021] and key stakeholders, including policymakers and health and social care professionals, were invited to collaborate in a half-day co-design workshop [February 2024]. The workshop modified Stanford D’s five-stage design thinking processes to consider ‘How might we harness strengths and abilities to create a home and beyond’. Qualitative data were captured on flip charts, post-its, and via photographs over three rounds of activities following initial reflection regarding 1) identifying emerging challenges, 2) exploring potential solutions, and 3) considering resources for advocacy and success. Results Data analyses from 16 participants highlight 1)Personal insights: silence, freedom in decision-making, feeling overwhelmed, valuing independence and understanding accommodation transitions; 2)Organisational insights: developing and promoting independent skills, managing resident preferences and personalities, balancing regulations within emergency accommodation, and staff training. Space was critical in fostering therapeutic well-being and a sense of home environment. Conclusions Effective organisational structures are required to facilitate coherent transfers and transitions. Using co-design methods enabled real-world partnerships and engagement. Key messages • Homelessness is a significant public health challenge, and a model of low support emergency accommodation has value in supporting transition through and out of services. • Engaging with people with lived experience of homelessness is essential for developing supported accommodation models.