#CUHKSWK2023
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Plenary Sessions
Session 2: Service Intervention
Session 2 : Service Intervention
Mission possible: Policy and services to eradicate homeless problem in Hong Kong
Abstract:
This presentation will summarise the results of different research conducted by the speaker on homeless problem in Hong Kong to identify its macro, meso and micro causes. The presentation will outline and analyse the development and changes of homeless problem in Hong Kong from 2000 to 2023. Different policy and service initiatives, which aim at alleviating the homeless problem have being launched, but the continuation of homeless problem seems to suggest eradicating homeless problem is an impossible mission. If we can focus on the strength and assets of the homeless people and not just focus on their problems and deficits, the mission will indeed be possible.
Using online peer-support groups to address mental health needs: A co-creation approach with migrant domestic workers
Abstract:
Migrant domestic workers (MDWs) are key members of our society as they provide vital support to Hong Kong families. However, where can they go when they are the ones who need support? MDW Recharge Hub, launched on 1 May 2023, is co-created by a team led by the speaker and MDW peer leaders to promote MDWs’ mental health. The website is designed to keep MDWs updated with information and knowledge on taking care of their own and others’ mental health, provide easy navigation to community resources and activities related to mental health, and to recharge their mental power through various peer support activities. The hub is now the home for different MDW mental health interventions led by the speaker’s team, such as Dream Catcher Training Programme, Recharge Radio, Arts for Wellness workshops, and MDW Recharge Line.
The presentation will introduce the co-creation approach adopted by the project, which is guided by the Critical Theory paradigm to use research as a means to empower disadvantaged people and co-construct new knowledge and new intervention models. The presentation will also report our ongoing evaluation findings that showed these co-created interventions, featured with low-cost and high feasibility, can effectively enhance participants’ awareness of mental health, willingness to seek help, and reduce their level of depression, anxiety, and stress. Discussions will focus on how the co-creation approach can be applied to more social service innovations.
Effects of a group-based intervention on self-determination competence enhancement for adults with mild intellectual disabilities: A randomised controlled trial study in Hong Kong
Abstract:
Self-determination (SD) is an intrinsic need in all human beings. In the past two decades, the construct of SD has developed extensively in the international intellectual disability (ID) field. However, very little research has been done in Chinese societies. This study aimed to develop an SD enhancement group intervention for adults with ID and to evaluate its effectiveness.
Methods:
A randomised controlled trial with pre-test and post-test was adopted. Participants were randomly assigned to three conditions: SD enhancement group, SD-PLUS group and leisure activity group (Control group). Five groups were organised for each of the three conditions. There will be 10 sessions for the intervention groups covering the SD core components including self-understanding, goal-setting and attaining, self-regulating and plan adjusting. The scales AIR SDS-C and PWI-C were mainly used for outcome measurement. Statistical analyses were conducted to examine changes in SD competencies and quality of life.
Results:
In total, 106 participants participated in the study. Results show that score increments in self-determination competencies were found in SD group and SD-PLUS group. The positive changes in personal well-being after interventions were slightly greater in SD and SD-PLUS groups than that of Control group, though the difference does not reach a statistically significant level.
Conclusions and implications:
This study is the first evidence-based study in the Chinese communities. It helps fill a research gap in existing interventions and provide new knowledge for a group-based intervention. The practice can be used with Chinese-speaking people with ID in different parts of the world.
Evaluation of the Professional Outreach Support Pilot Programme for people with disabilities living in private care home in Hong Kong
Abstract:
Private residential care homes for people with disabilities (private RCHDs) have become a significant component of the disability residential service sector, comprising more than one-fifth of the accommodation facilities for individuals with disabilities in Hong Kong. However, these private RCHDs have faced intense criticism for their poor physical environments and service quality. To tackle this issue, the "Professional Outreach Support Pilot Programme" (POT) was launched in 2019, with the aim of enhancing support services for private residential care facilities. This research sought to evaluate the overall performance and effectiveness of the POT programme, as well as the contextual influences on its implementation. By employing the "Success Case Method" developed by Brinkerhoff (2003), the study randomly invited a total of 23 service users for in-depth interviews, with 10-15 individuals from both the "successful" and "unsuccessful" groups (determined based on service record analysis). Additionally, four focus groups were conducted, involving family members, private RCHDs, and POT staff to gather insights on service performance and delivery. Despite challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the service has yielded significant benefits for the residents. The study findings reveal that service users have observed noticeable improvements in their quality of life, psychological well-being, and physical health. Data analyses of interviews and focus groups also underscore the importance of innovative interventions, such as digital interventions, in contributing to the programme's success. The study sheds light on the collaborative nature of public-private residential care and provides evidence-based recommendations for establishing a more resilient service system.