Dissemination and implementation of suicide prevention training in one Scottish region

Linda Gask, Gillian Lever-Green, Rebecca Hays

    Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

    86 Downloads (Pure)

    Abstract

    Background. As part of a national co-ordinated and multifaceted response to the excess suicide rate, the Choose Life initiative, the Highland Choose Life Group launched an ambitious programme of training for National Health Service (NHS), Council and voluntary organisation staff. In this study of the dissemination and implementation of STORM (Skills-based Training On Risk Management), we set out to explore not only the outcomes of training, but key factors involved in the processes of diffusion, dissemination and implementation of the educational intervention. Methods. Participants attending STORM training in Highland Region provided by 12 trained facilitators during the period March 2004 to February 2005 were recruited. Quantitative data collection from participants took place at three time points; immediately before training, immediately post-training and six months after training. Semi-structured telephone interviews were carried out with the training facilitators and with a sample of course participants 6 months after they had been trained. We have utilized the conceptual model described by Greenhalgh and colleagues in a Framework analysis of the data, for considering the determinants of diffusion, dissemination and implementation of interventions in health service delivery and organization. Results. Some 203 individuals completed a series of questionnaire measures immediately pre (time 1) and immediately post (time 2) training and there were significant improvements in attitudes and confidence of participants. Key factors in the diffusion, dissemination and implementation process were the presence of a champion or local opinion leader who supported and directed the intervention, local adaptation of the materials, commissioning of a group of facilitators who were provided with financial and administrative support, dedicated time to provide the training and regular peer-support. Conclusion. Features that contributed to the success of STORM were related to both the context (the multi-dimensional support provided from the host organisation and the favourable policy environment) and the intervention (openness to local adaptation, clinical relevance and utility), and the dynamic interaction between context and the intervention. © 2008 Gask et al; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.
    Original languageEnglish
    Article number246
    JournalBMC Health Services Research
    Volume8
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - 3 Dec 2008

    Keywords

    • Suicide Prevention

    Fingerprint

    Dive into the research topics of 'Dissemination and implementation of suicide prevention training in one Scottish region'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

    Cite this