A framework for improving knowledge sharing in the provision of floating support services in sheltered housing for the elderly

Egbu, JU

Abstract

The challenges arising from the changing demographic profile and the rapid increase in the older population in the UK promotes the development of a range of models of housing and support that allow elderly individuals to live independently for as long as possible. Over half a million elderly individuals live in rented, sheltered housing in England. Sheltered housing is purpose built accommodation for elderly individuals who want to live independently in an environment that provides support and is secure. It is a common view that knowledge sharing plays an important role in the success of businesses and organisations. This study proposes to identify the critical success factors (CSF) of knowledge sharing that should improve the provision of floating support services (FSS) to the elderly in sheltered housing. Literature demonstrates that the success of knowledge sharing is influenced by factors including trust, management support, communication, team networking, technology, structure and organisational culture. Knowledge sharing covers a wide variety of functionalities and supports different sets of activities within an organisation. Therefore, to achieve the research aim, both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies are used to gather data. Data have been collected through semi-structured interviews with thirty (30) participants and survey questionnaires engaging ninety (99) respondents across six organisations in Greater Manchester. The findings suggest that trust and relationships, team networking, strong leadership support and information technology are the CSFs that can improve knowledge sharing between floating support workers and adult social service workers; and play an important role in the decision to share knowledge. Based on these findings, a framework for improving knowledge sharing in the provision of FSS was developed. The framework will be of benefit to policy makers and regulators such as housing associations and providers of floating support services. The findings from this research contribute valuable new knowledge to both researchers and practitioners in both housing associations and the adult social service sectors by developing a holistic approach and in turn increasing their chances of improving knowledge sharing between teams providing floating support services.

Citation

Egbu, J. A framework for improving knowledge sharing in the provision of floating support services in sheltered housing for the elderly. (Thesis). University of Salford, Manchester

• Thesis Type: Thesis
• Deposit Date: Jul 5, 2013
• Publicly Available Date: Jul 5, 2013
• Additional Information: Funders : Development Trusts Association (DTA)