Jean Faugier

An evaluative study assessing the impact of the Leading an Empowered Organisation programme

The development of strong, effective clinical leadership is currently high on the political agenda (DoH, 1999; 2000). It is central to the governments modernization agenda and the improvement of patient care and is reflected in the plethora of documents, strategies and initiatives currently permeating the NHS. The Leading an Empowered Organisation (LEO) programme is an integral part of the drive to increase and strengthen clinical leadership among the nursing and allied health professions. The NHS National Nursing Leadership Programme is coordinating the launch of the LEO programme to over 32,050 clinical staff. The programme is designed to create a critical mass of clinical leaders with the ability to make a real difference to patient care. The study was undertaken as part of a larger evaluation to assimilate evidence regarding the impact of the LEO programme. The research also addressed contact and communication with senior staff and the impact of these on the leadership agenda. The results indicate that the LEO programme is empowering clinical staff to facilitate new ways of working and providing participants with the practical tools to perform their roles effectively and create an environment in which others can grow and develop. There is still much to be learned from the LEO programme and, as such, the evaluation process continues.

Stigma: Its impact on professional responses to the needs of marginalised groups

The stigma associated with drug-use, prostitution and mental and physical illness is not just an experience, it is an active and dynamic process which is often perpetrated by professional responses. Stigma is a complex social phenomenon which resists simple definition. This paper examines the concept of stigma in relation to deviance and explores the notion of a trajectory from one to the other. It highlights the influence of public perceptions of deviance on drug abuse and explores the particular implications for female drug-users. By considering how the actions of health professionals may be reinforcing deviant labels, it emphasises the urgent need for educational interventions. Health professionals need to understand the sociological basis of stigma to create a consciousness of their own professional action. They are in a unique position to intervene and cut across this trajectory to promote awareness and change.