Development of a data-informed research strategy for a public mental health service using stakeholder consultation

Abstract

Objective

To develop a data-informed research strategy for a public mental health service (MHS).

Methods

Data collection involved consultation with MHS key stakeholders and external partners and a MHS staff survey regarding research training, experience, needs and suggested research themes for the MHS. Results were descriptively analysed, discussed in a MHS research planning workshop and used to inform the research strategy.

Results

Enablers of research included time, funding, research training and resources/infrastructure and linkage with supervisors/mentors. Barriers included lack of time, funding/resources and managerial support, competing clinical demands and lacking confidence, skills or experience. Key workshop outcomes were two strategic goals: to build a collaborative research culture, and to focus on translational multidisciplinary research which improves outcomes and experiences for consumers, families and MHS staff. To achieve goals, strategic actions with matching priorities and signs of success were outlined.

Conclusions

Multidisciplinary and peer worker staff perspectives directly informed development of the MHS’s Strategic Plan for Research, anchoring the plan in the local context and identifying strengths and limitations to be addressed to achieve the Plan. These study findings may assist other public MHSs wishing to establish their own research strategy and embed a research culture as part of clinical practice.