Neil Carver

Building model trains and planes: An autoethnographic investigation of a human occupation

ABSTRACT This research utilised an autoethnographic method, termed collective autobiography, to explore the nature and meaning of the amateur hobby of building models from childhood to adulthood. Hobbies and leisure activities are areas of human occupation of increasing interest to a variety of disciplines. Although model making may concern the miniature representation of any subject, this paper focuses on the construction of model aircraft kits, trains and their layouts. As a complex, specific human occupation, modelling is found to contribute to personal well-being and, while the occupation may start in childhood, its associated motivations and required skills develop over a life time. The findings also reveal aspects of the nature of the relationship between the modeller, the process of modelling, and the final product. In addition elements of the gendered nature of modelling, its role within father-son relationships, and the accommodation of modelling within shared domestic spaces are brought to light. The modeller is seen to be a creative individual and a consumer. The specific modelling occupations described are recognised as having their origins within the culture of post-war baby boomer Britain, and the socioeconomic and technological environment of that period.

Informal mental health patients: what are they told of their legal rights?

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to determine what written information is given to informally admitted patients in England and Wales regarding their legal rights in relation to freedom of movement and treatment. Design/methodology/approach Information leaflets were obtained by a search of all National Health Service mental health trust websites in England and health boards in Wales and via a Freedom of Information Act 2000 request. Data were analysed using content analysis. Findings Of the 61 organisations providing inpatient care, 27 provided written information in the form of a leaflet. Six provided public access to the information leaflets via their website prior to admission. Although the majority of leaflets were accurate the breadth and depth of the information varied considerably. Despite a common legal background there was confusion and inconsistency in the use of the terms informal and voluntary as well as inconsistency regarding freedom of movement, the right to refuse treatment and discharge against medical advice. Research limitations/implications The research has demonstrated the value of Freedom of Information Act 2000 requests in obtaining data. Further research should explore the effectiveness of informing patients of their rights from their perspective. Practical implications Work should be undertaken to establish a consensus of good practice in this area. Information should be consistent, accurate and understandable. Originality/value This is the only research reporting on the availability and content of written information given to informal patients about their legal rights.

Section 5(4) of the Mental Health Act 1983: a review of local policy and guidance in England and Wales

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to review policy or guidance on the implementation of Section 5(4) written by NHS mental health trusts in England and health boards in Wales. Design/methodology/approach – A Freedom of Information request was submitted to all trusts in England (n=57) and health boards in Wales (n=7) asking them to provide a copy of any policy or guidance on the implementation of Section 5(4). Documents were analysed using content analysis. Specific attention was given to any deviations from the national Mental Health Act Codes of Practice. Findings – In total, 41 (67.2 per cent) organisations had a policy on the implementation of Section 5(4). There was a high level of consistency between local guidance and the Mental Health Act Codes of Practice. There were however; different interpretations of the guidance and errors that could lead to misuse of the section. Some policies contained useful guidance that could be adopted by future versions of the national Codes of Practice. Research ...