Social services and Primary Care Groups: a window of collaborative opportunity?

Abstract

This paper reports on the findings of two investigations into the relationship between social services and Primary Care Groups (PCGs): a national postal questionnaire and a series of regional seminars. The key findings of both explorations are summarised and placed in the context of other available evidence on the development of PCGs. Issues covered include: the background and status of social services representatives; preparation and support for the board role; feedback and accountability, and early contributions. It is concluded that progress is being made in bringing together the agendas and activities of PCGs and social services, and to a lesser extent the wider local authority, but that important obstacles remain in place. The enduring significance of the resource dependency model needs to be a key factor in emerging partnerships.