An Economic Model and Ethical Guide for Local Authority Investment in Social Connectedness to Prevent Care Needs

Background Social connectedness includes the structure, function and quality of people's relationships. It has been shown to have short- and long-term impacts on mental, cognitive and physical health outcomes and forms part of the Adult Social Care Outcome Framework. There are few economic analyses that consider the impact of action to improve social connectedness and little consideration of intervention cost or ethical practice in this area. This research specifically focusses on the number and type of connections that people have with others and the impact of social network approaches (such as befriending, timebanks and voluntary practical support). This addresses a problem faced across Local Authorities who need to understand the costs, impact on outcomes and care needs and cost-effectiveness in allocation of finite resources and ethical practice. Research question This research will answer the questions: What is the cost effectiveness of social network approaches to increase social connectedness compared to current models of care for Local Authorities, participants and carers over two, five and ten years? What guidance will support Local Authority ethical practice in this field? Aims, objectives and timeline This work aims to improve understanding of the economic case for Local Authority investment in social connectedness interventions for over 50-year-olds living in the community and provide guidance for ethical practice. Specifically, the research will: develop a conceptual model in years one and two to describe the links between social connectedness, outcomes and costs; design and implement an economic model to in years two and three; co-produce a guide for Local Authority ethical practice in year four; and deliver effective knowledge mobilisation and impact on practice throughout including dissemination in year five. Each work package will be informed by public involvement. Methods The conceptual model will be developed from systematic review of effectiveness and cost-effectiveness literature, models for social connectedness and stakeholder engagement to refine the scope and definitions, including the most valuable output for Local Authorities. The economic model will be designed, implemented, checked and validated using data from published literature, social care costs and expert opinion. This is the first economic model to have been developed in this area and will be refined alongside the conceptual model to support feasibility, transferability and relevance for Local Authorities. An ethical guide will be developed with co-researchers to support Local Authority ethical activities in relation to social connectedness. This will be informed by rapid review of published and unpublished literature, learning from the previous work packages, stakeholder engagement and co-researcher contributions. Anticipated impact and dissemination This study will inform effective Local Authority decision making in allocation of finite resources to improve population health. The guidance produced will support practice that delivers positive impact, avoids negative impact and remains in line with resident values and priorities. Stakeholder involvement will increase the impact of this work. Public, academic and professional networks and collaboration runs throughout the Fellowship and the final outputs will enter the health and care system through a combination of publications, written briefings, a video and oral presentations.