Getting ready to the use the Outcomes Star

Before you complete your first Star Chart, ensure you have read the FAQ on getting ready to use the Outcomes Star.

Before adding a service user to the system

1. You must seek the service user's consent to have their information on the system. Your organisation may have a consent form or other way of recording that this has been agreed. Whatever the process, seeking consent is a condition of use of the Outcomes Star System.
   
2. Double check they have not already been added to the system by a colleague. You can use the service user search to find out - or ask your corporate admin to check the system more broadly. Your results will only cover service users associated with you. Have they used the service before? Or another service within your organisation? It may be preferable to you and the service user to add to this record, rather than beginning from scratch - though if a service user would like a fresh start, we recommend going with this, especially if there has been a break in service use.
   
3. You will need to allocate a personal identifier for the service user. This must be unique and should not include any information likely to easily identify them to others. For instance, we advise you do not use their room/flat number. Most agencies use the ID they use for the service user's client file.
   
4. The ID will need to be recorded somewhere but kept in a locked cabinet to ensure privacy for the individual.

Before adding the first Star Chart for a service user

Before completing the Star Chart with a service user for the first time, you should read the FAQ on introducing the Star to a service user. Make a good amount of time available to explain the following to them before you complete a Star Chart:

• The Journey of Change
• The Ten Ladders.
  
• How the Star links to your support and action plans.
  

Completing the online Star Chart form

There are two versions of the form, so watch out for them if you begin using the system, and make sure you complete the correct one depending on whether the service user is present or not.

The practice of completing the form online should be no different than completing a paper version. Don't feel that you should rush it simply because it's on-screen. Allocate time for a very long session for the first time you complete a Star Chart with an individual.

The following FAQs provide essential reading:

• What is the best way to complete the Outcomes Star Chart?
  
• What if the service user and key worker don't agree?
• What if the service user won't engage?
• Won't it demotivate service users if they see their scores go down?
  

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