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This theme focuses specifically on your online directory, which we define as “an online directory of local resources and services relevant to adults who may need care and support and unpaid carers who may need support. This forms part of the information base but is unlikely to be the whole of it”.
Overview
This theme focuses specifically on your online directory, which we define as “an online directory of local resources and services relevant to adults who may need care and support and unpaid carers who may need support. This forms part of the information base but is unlikely to be the whole of it”.
You may also have an internal directory for use by staff, or content in your directory which is only visible to staff. The resources below may equally apply to internal content.
Existing resources
- The Open Referral UK data standard defines a way of gathering and using council and public services data in a common and consistent directory structure. This makes the data as useful as possible for people who might draw upon care and support, and people providing local services.
- The CQC API allows you to retrieve current data about CQC registered providers and locations
- Checkatrade/CTSI Approved Code schemes (or equivalents) enable someone to identify reputable local tradespeople
- Work carried out by Birmingham University into directory accessibility/functionality (due for publication shortly)
- Alternatives to traditional directories used in some council areas, eg Tribe to grow support, relationships and opportunities, Ami supporting befriending and volunteering in Cheshire East and Oxfordshire, and Pairly for connecting people with care in Somerset.
Points to consider
- How is your data structured? Is it easy to interrogate, maintain, share with other directories, and report on?
- How does the data support adults, children, and families? Is it integrated with your Family Information Service/SEND Local Offer?
- How is the content updated? Several councils have reported problems getting content providers to log in and update their records; however, it is strongly recommended that this functionality is available. Directory entries should ideally have a ‘last updated/verified’ date displayed; some directories will hide entries that have not been updated or validated in a given period of time.
- How is inaccurate content reported? Ideally there should be a feedback tool which allows a user to notify both the content provider and the system administrator that an entry needs correcting or updating. Evidence indicates that a robust and effective reporting/correction function greatly increases levels of confidence in – and therefore usage of – the directory.
- How do you manage directory content across boundaries with neighbouring authorities? Are there services or resources for specific communities (eg foreign language speakers or ethnic minority groups) in neighbouring council areas which could benefit some of your residents?