Mystery and Magic: Perceptions of Social Work within an Acute Hospital Setting

• DOI: 10.1080/09503153.2023.2208786
• Publication Date: 2023-05-11T13:14:39Z
• Authors: Lorne Power; Laurel Dean; Lucy Evans; Andrew Haughton; Cath Holmström
• Keywords: Reflexivity; Thematic Analysis; Qualitative property

Health and social care integration has been promoted by successive governments as the answer to meeting increased need within limited budgets. However, there little research in UK regarding Social Workers working integrated health teams. This study explores how work is perceived a range of professionals three different models same acute hospital South-East England. The team (all practicing workers) used mixed method approach - combining questionnaires focus groups – explore similarities differences perception role held contexts which had types or integration. Thematic analysis qualitative data identified five key themes. These included workers: providing ‘checks balances’ professionals, ‘linking bridging’ between hospital, community patients, holding ‘mysterious knowledge’, having ‘strong interpersonal skills’ ‘function dynamics’’. We conclude outlining recommendations for practice further research, limitations our reflexivity practitioners.