The Scottish Approach to Change supports the health and care system to do change well. NHS renewal involves a lot of change. To be successful, it needs to use a clear approach. This is what the Scottish Approach to Change provides.
It brings together different change methods into a single approach and translates theory into a practical tool. Importantly, the Scottish Approach to Change uses simple accessible language. This means everyone can achieve high quality change.
It does this by:
- focusing on people
- using evidence, experience, and learning
- empowering individuals to innovate and improve
- combining various change methods into one approach
- turning theory into a practical tool
For change to be achieved well, the right enablers must support it. A consistent, structured approach needs to be taken through the change cycle.
Further details are available about the framework.
What can you achieve?
The Scottish Approach to Change can help health and social care organisations to:
- take actions that lead to progress – focus on driving real change and innovation in the current state
- focus on inclusion at every stage – prioritise changes that reduce inequalities
Effectively balancing:
what is achievable – change that is practical and grounded, while prioritising clinical safety.
strategic priorities – change that aligns with national and local strategic priorities
what people want – change that is based on engaging with and listening to the people who need and use services
what is affordable – change that is financially sustainable within the current economic context
What does good change feel like?
Coordinating efforts, pointing everyone in the same direction.
- enabling people – empowering people to do their jobs effectively and reach their full potential
- removing barriers – using proportionate processes that create action not inaction
- leading by showing the way – giving direction, building connections, and uniting people
- creating spaces for change – building relationships that foster teamwork across boundaries
- sharing the load – helping with ‘fixing’ things. It’s everyone’s responsibility
- finding ways to collaborate – working with communities, third and independent sector
Creating a change mindset
A change mindset is the belief that change is possible. Believing you can improve the current health and social care system and the outcomes it produces by making different choices. Adopting a change mindset requires openness to new ideas and innovative approaches.
Who might you need around you
Successful change brings together the right people to participate and drive the change. Who you need to work with may change as you go through the change cycle. Reflecting on the skills and connections you need at each stage can be helpful.
Acting as a learning partner
It is important that change is owned and delivered by those who run the services. Change, improvement, and project management teams can play an important role in supporting these changes by acting as a learning partner.
Using project management
Project management is essential to ensuring process rigour when making a change. It ensures that the steps of change happen and that important factors are considered.