Research into Lone Working in Adult Social Care

We undertook qualitative research to explore the impacts, benefits and challenges of lone working in the adult social care sector.

Lone working is particularly prevalent in social care and has been shown to have potentially detrimental effects on physical and mental wellbeing for some staff.

Our research involved semi-structured, one-to-one consultations with 50 lone workers and 20 managers of lone workers from across the full spectrum of adult social care provision. We also ran quantitative surveys of lone workers and managers to add statistical reliability to the results.  Skills for Care have used the findings from the research to support the development of new resources to support lone workers and employers in adult social care.

Feedback from our clients

  • "It’s a great report, and I’ve submitted it to the Ofsted inspection team." – Strategic Commissioner, local authority

  • “Thanks for such a thoughtful report. It will be very useful to us and other organisations. Another great job from York Consulting!” Local Authority Director

  • “Thank you for this very helpful evaluation. I have only received positive feedback on it. It has been great working with you.” Local Authority Head of Service

  • “Your report was extremely thorough, and I appreciate how responsive you were to our additional requests for analysis.” Government department

  • “The team at York Consulting were professional and a delight to work with. I am very grateful for their input.” Government department

  • "Well done – a lot of work in a short space of time and at such high quality.” Sector Skills Council

  • "Your workshop was extremely well received and enabled managers to gain detailed insight, drawing on your expertise and knowledge.” Senior manager, not-for-profit organisation

  • "It [YCL’s final report] is one of the most impressive evaluation reports I’ve had the pleasure to read.” Principal, Further Education College

  • “YCL staff understand our organisation…I have developed a great relationship with them and I hope to work with them again.” Housing Association

  • “I’ve enjoyed working with you on this project. Thanks for your co-operation and flexibility.” Government department