Good decision-making – How to develop your practice

What makes an effective decision? Explore the latest Research in Practice resources to support good decision-making in adult social care.

Decisions in care are often complex and changeable. They may be made with limited time, information and resource. A good decision is not the same as a perfect one and critical reflection is key in uncertain and often emotionally charged situations.

New sections of the good decision-making resource are now available. The sections explore:

• What makes a good decision?
• Support for decision-making
• Current and future developments

The resource is designed for practitioners and anyone involved in adult social care. A new blog also explores the resources and how they can support equity, wellbeing and rights.

Strengthening decision-making can help build a culture that makes a positive difference to people’s lives.

About the resource

The good decision-making resource is for practitioners working with adults and carers who draw on care and support. It is designed for anyone wanting to improve their decisions and to ensure individuals whose lives are affected are involved in the process.

The resource is designed to be flexible and easy to navigate between sections. It can be used in a range of ways to support understanding and improve practice. Each section has an introduction that explains what is covered. 

It was co-developed with people who have lived experience of social care and with practitioners. It is a relaunch of the 2013 Good Decision Making: Practitioner Handbook that brought together research and practice.