Towards a Synthesised Directional Map of the Stages of Innovation in Children’s Social Care

• Published in: The British journal of social work 2023-07, Vol.53 (5), p.2478-2498
• Main Authors: Lefevre, Michelle, Hampson, Martha, Goldsmith, Carlie
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Charities; Child welfare; Children; Information dissemination; Innovations; Social services; Youth
• ISSN: 0045-3102; 1468-263X
• DOI: 10.1093/bjsw/bcac183

Abstract There has been substantial investment by governments and charities in the UK in the development, diffusion and evaluation of innovative practice models and systems to safeguard and support vulnerable children, young people and families. However, understandings of the processes of innovation within the sector are still at a relatively early stage—for example, in relation to what might be expected or planned for at each stage of an innovation journey. As a result, best use may not always be made of opportunities to address deficiencies in provision. To inform this knowledge gap, the literature was reviewed regarding innovation processes and trajectories within children’s social care (statutory and voluntary settings) and within the field of social innovation more widely. Ten modellings of the stages of innovation were identified and synthesised into a directional map of six stages that might be commonly expected: mobilising, designing, developing, integrating, growing and system change. This trajectory framework poses key questions for innovators to consider at each stage to inform planning and determine if, when and how an innovation should progress further. Innovation is increasingly being relied on to transform existing theories, services and interventions which have not, to date, been effective in addressing certain complex social and family problems. Yet, there is currently insufficient information available to guide those leading an innovation project about what might be expected as they plan, structure and implement new models and systems. For example, what activities should be focused on in early, middle or later stages of innovation; what resources might be needed; and when is it right to progress to the next set of tasks? We reviewed existing literature to address this gap in knowledge. By bringing together the key points from ten existing modellings of the innovation journey, we created our own ‘directional map’ of the six stages of innovation that might be expected. Their representation as a ‘wheel’ indicates the potential for innovations to go back and forth between phases. Our trajectory framework provides broad indications of how the innovation journey might unfold and some of the potential challenges that might be experienced along the way. It offers suggestions which should help leaders plan what activities and resources might be most useful at each stage and questions to inform their review of progress.