Development of a competency framework for a specialist dementia service

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss the development of a competency framework for staff working in a specialist service for people with dementia.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative and purposive methodology was used and included focus groups, questionnaires and interviews. Content analysis together with synthesis of literature was used to generate the competency framework.

Findings

A competency framework was developed with eight main clusters. These were: skills for working effectively with people with dementia and their families; advanced assessment skills; enhancing psychological well-being; understanding behaviours; enhancing physical well-being; clinical leadership; understanding ethical and legal issues; and demonstrating skills in personal and professional development.

Research limitations/implications

Further research is needed to include service user perspectives.

Practical implications

The framework could be implemented in practice by managers, health care professionals and training providers as a tool to identify strengths and limitations in knowledge skills and attitudes and to identify areas for competency development through specific training.

Originality/value

The competency framework contributes to the development of a training curriculum for staff working within a specialist service.

Citation

Smythe, A., Jenkins, C., Bentham, P. and Oyebode, J. (2014), "Development of a competency framework for a specialist dementia service", The Journal of Mental Health Training, Education and Practice, Vol. 9 No. 1, pp. 59-68. https://doi.org/10.1108/JMHTEP-08-2012-0024