Using knowledge brokering to produce community-generated evidence

Abstract

Background: Devolution and integration of health and social care have placed increasing pressure on local statutory services, with a corresponding shift of health and social care to community organisations. The voluntary and charitable sector (VCS) is expected to make the case for increased funding by providing evidence of value and impact.Aims and objectives: This paper explores the challenges of compiling evidence on health outcomes which do not reflect the holistic nature of VCS support. We document how knowledge brokering can be used to enable the VCS to generate evidence.Key conclusions: Knowledge brokering (KB) may be an effective approach for developing community-generated evidence. Brokering is also needed to change perspectives on what counts as good evidenceKey messagesHealth outcome measures are not seen to be appropriate by the voluntary sector for social prescribing services.A new evidence base is needed that reflects the social determinants of health.Knowledge brokering may be an effective approach for developing community-generated evidence.Brokering is also needed to change perspectives on what counts as good evidence.