Change management: a tool for support workers

Within this article, the author will examine a number of the main ideas and theories of change management, together with a change tool, ‘The Model for Improvement,’ which support workers can use to deliver successful change. Change is often a state that is forced upon us, often with little or no warning or forward planning. Having an awareness of the theory behind change and which tools are available will enable the change to be planned and executed in a controlled and positive way. When change is required, it should be to improve the quality of the care delivered or the clinical environment for both patients and staff. It is therefore important that the change goes ahead as smoothly as possible and support workers play a major part in helping to achieve this. It is vitally important that staff are involved in all stages of the change process. Support workers are the staff best placed, being closest to their patients and clients, to recognise where service delivery needs to be improved. They can identify what changes can be made and how these can be put in place. It is therefore vitally important that managers support staff in developing change-management skills and experience.