A joint project between the Directorate of Public Health and Social Care and the East Midlands Development Centre (NHS East Midlands), supported by the East Midlands Improvement and Efficiency Partnership, has successfully identified and addressed local issues in dementia care.

The East Midlands Joint Improvement Partnership Safeguarding and Dignity Board was commissioned to undertake a review of Adult Protection Serious Case Reviews (SCRs) in the region. The project was hosted by Leicestershire County Council and funded by the East Midlands Improvement and Efficiency Partnership.

The project started in July 2010 and five current SCRs in the East Midlands were examined in order to develop the new process. The new four stage process will provide more options in safeguarding adults and should be more cost effective, less time consuming and ensure learning is disseminated, and acted upon more quickly.

This project brings Local Authorities, Pharmacies and Primary Care Trusts together around the single issue of medication. The result is that customers experience a safe and well managed service that enables them to live independently. Initial findings are demonstrating significant efficiencies for both the health and socail care sectors.

Over the last two years significant improvements have been made to safeguarding adults in Coventry. Arrangements are in place to protect individuals promptly and effectively where allegations of abuse and neglect are made. Our prevention strategy 'dignity and respect not abuse and neglect' is now fully in place.

This case study reflects the journey we have taken, and in the spirit of developing and consolidating good practice, sharing the lessons we have learnt.