Publish date: 24 November 2021

The HOPE(S) model is an ambitious human rights based approach to working with individuals in segregation developed from research and clinical practice. The clinical model developed by Mersey Care reduces the use of long term segregation sometimes experienced by autistic adults, adults with a learning disability and children and young people.

Mersey Care has considerable experience of good practice in complex care settings and continues to collect clinical evidence as part of its commitment to learning. NHS England and NHS Improvement are funding the roll out of this model across services in England.

The HOPE(S) clinical has a relentlessly positive approach to supporting people in long term segregation.

The model describes:

It encourages teams to Harness the system through key attachments and partnerships

Create Opportunities for positive behaviours, meaningful and physical activities;

Identify Protective and preventative risk and clinical management strategies;

Build interventions to Enhance the coping skills of both staff and people in services

Whilst engaging in these tasks clinical teams and the System needs to be managed and developed to provide support throughout all stages of the approach.