Translating research into practice

Abstract

The impact of research on social work policy and practice is often gradual and sometimes negligible. This article reports on the outcomes from a small piece of research into assessment for community care services. The focus of the article is on policy guidance and training initiatives in particular those which emphasise the triangle of relationships between policy, research and practice. It is argued that research which appears immediately relevant to national or agency debates is likely to be drawn into such discussions and can inform or confirm decisions. The observation is that where research provokes some anxiety about policy or practice the agency may decide to take on board the findings as a protective mechanism. Lastly the article explores whether practitioners' reactions to research can influence managers' views about the relevance of certain findings and so encourage an agency response. Through a series of specific examples a picture emerges of the dynamics of research, practice and policy.