In the evidence base you will find accessible summaries of the research evidence on integration, including key messages for practice. While these summaries can be used on their own, they will also help direct you to the most relevant research, should you be interested in learning more.

To help you find what you are looking for, we have identified four distinct Levels of Integration and seven Areas of Practice as listed below. Please note that some summaries may be included under more than one heading.

Level of Integration

Strategic governance of the 'whole system'
Integrated commissioning of health and social care
Organisation and management of integrated services
Integrated professional practice and multi-disciplinary teams

Area of Practice

Community services generally
Intermediate care services for adults
Older people
Learning disability
Mental health
Physical disability
Drugs and alcohol

Understanding Integration

We advise everyone to read this section.  It gives a useful overview and background information, and includes accessible summaries of books and journal articles that we have identified as being key texts that are central to understanding the issue of integrated health and social care. These can be used on their own for a brief introduction to the topic, or you can follow signposts to the key texts for more detailed consideration.