Arising from the Lambeth, Southwark and Lewisham initiative, the following are outcome indicators that could be included in a possible national 'basket' of outcome indicators.

Local authorities might ask providers to gather one or more outcomes from the basket, possibly over a fixed period of time, where they were particularly relevant or where questions arose within contract monitoring. Each of the outcomes in the basket would need a clear definition to ensure that all SP teams asked for information from providers in the same way.

• Less than eight weeks rent arrears
• Register with GP
• Reduced use of A&E
• Reduced emergency psychiatric admissions
• Sustain medication (and whether independently)
• Independent living skills (unless included in the final version of the CLG transitions form)
• Move-on situation sustained for six months, one year or more
• Number to private rental, social housing or other projects (check)
• Number considered ready for move-on (check)

It would be possible to include in the basket information gathered by providers using a distance travelled outcomes tool internally, to encourage this as good practice (as appropriate) and learn from the information gathered. Key areas in which SP teams could request such information on client progress if the need arose within contract monitoring are:

• Improved money management/budgeting
• Improved use of time/employability
  
• Social networks/more positive relationships
• Managing own physical health
  
• Managing own mental/emotional health
• Addressing substance misuse
• Improved independent living skills
• Managing tenancy
• Engage with plan around offending behaviour

Author: Sara Burns, Triangle Consulting
Date added: 5th February 2007