Models of interprofessional working within a Sure Start "Trailblazer" Programme

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Social Work
• Early Childhood Education

Background:

• Sure Start programmes aim to improve outcomes for young children and families.
• Interprofessional working is crucial for delivering integrated services.
• Understanding different levels of collaboration (multi-, inter-, trans-disciplinary) is key.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the nature of interprofessional working within a Sure Start trailblazer programme.
• To analyze practice examples in relation to established definitions of interprofessionality.
• To discuss findings in the context of government targets and integrated practice.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative evaluation of interprofessional practice.
• Analysis of programme activities and professional interactions.
• Case examples illustrating multi-, inter-, and trans-disciplinary approaches.

Main Results:

• Identified examples of professionals working collaboratively towards shared objectives.
• Demonstrated practices in family support, child protection, and referral processes.
• Highlighted a programme focused on mother-child bonding.

Conclusions:

• Interprofessionality in Sure Start programmes supports integrated working.
• Effective collaboration is influenced by professional identity and values.
• Findings inform policy on children's centres and early intervention services.