Making the case for stronger services
The National Service Framework (NSF) for Long-Term Neurological Conditions
This sets out a vision of high-quality joined up services – the Neurological Alliance’s overarching goal. Visit the Department of Health website for a copy of the NSF and resources to help secure its full introduction.
10 Quick Wins
This document was launched by the Care Services Improvement Partnership, now known as the Long Term Conditions (LTC) Delivery and Support Team, and the Department of Health in 2007, to encourage action on NSF implementation. Local campaigners may find it useful as a starting point in discussions with Primary Care Trusts (PCTs). You can download the leaflet and the accompanying poster here.
The LTC Team also run an on-line community for anyone interested in achieving implementation of the NSF, you can log in here.
Commissioning Guide for Long-Term Neurological Conditions
Launched in 2008 to support commissioners, this provides another reference for discussions with them. Download a copy here.
World Class Commissioning
The Department of Health calls World Class Commissioning ‘a statement of intent, aimed at delivering outstanding performance in the way we commission health and care services in the NHS.’ It offers you levers for achieving better services. As it is rolled out across England it should significantly strengthen the way neurological services are commissioned. Download the vision and competencies for World Class Commissioning.
Long Term Neurological Conditions: A good practice guide to the development of the multi-disciplinary team and the value of the specialist nurse.
This booklet was developed through collaboration between Epilepsy Action, the MS Society, Parkinson’s UK (all Neurological Alliance members) and the Royal College of Nursing, NHS National Workforce Planning and the Department of Health. It should help you to make the case for specialist neurological nurses in your area. You can download a copy here.
NHS Evidence – neurological conditions
NHS Evidence – neurological conditions aims to provide access to NHS healthcare professionals of the best available evidence related to neurological conditions. It is not intended to replace databases like PubMed, which provide access to journal articles. Although NHS Evidence – neurological conditions is targeted at health professionals, anyone interested in improving services can find useful information about best practice at their website.
The National Service Framework for Long Term Neurological Conditions: National Support for Local Implementation 2008
The Department of Health has published this booklet detailing many of the initiatives currently under way to promote implementation of the NSF. You can download a copy here.