The author of a new paper believes that it clearly demonstrates why Standards are both essential and urgent for the Transforming Community Equipment Services Retail Model
It is now widely known that Standards for community equipment provision are due to be issued in England early 2011 (in the form of Best Practice Guidelines). This is supported by The UK Community Equipment Standards Adoption Group. The Guidelines will cover the provision of community equipment in its entirety, including the Transforming Community Equipment Services (TCES) Retail Model.
Brian Donnelly has written a summary paper to make it clear why Standards for England are required to cover the Retail Model, as well as other methods of provision. The paper examines the main issues and concerns relating to the Retail Model, and is to be read in conjunction with an original paper calling on The Need for National Minimum Standards, as this provides the overall context.
Brian says that it is often assumed that the Retail Model, as a Government backed scheme, includes safeguards and standards within its design; this is not the case according the author. Local Authorities and NHS organisations are responsible themselves for ensuring service provision is safe, legal and of acceptable quality. He believes that some aspects of the Retail Model increase the risks borne by these organisations.
Brian stated; "Many of the concerns raised in the past about the Retail Model e.g. governance, finance and legal issues, have still not been sufficiently addressed. Recent evidence has also proved that some of the longstanding concerns around the safety and quality of the Model still exist.”
He added; "The DH has discouraged contractual arrangements with retailers, a lack of appropriate governance which leaves organizations exposed to a high level of risk. Their withdrawal from supporting the highly regarded accreditation scheme (CEDAB) could also be exposing service users to high-pressure selling and unmet needs, from less professional and ungoverned retailers.”
He concluded; "Although our paper concludes that it is not possible for Standards to resolve all of the concerns relating to the Retail Model, their application will help to mitigate the effects and provide a level of protection and assurance for those organizations which have chosen, or are considering whether, to adopt the Retail Model. They would be beneficial to all commissioners, providers, retailers, service users and regulators.”
The new paper can be downloaded HERE