Significant Incident Learning Process (SILP) – the experience of facilitating and evaluating the process in adult safeguarding

Purpose – In recent years a variety of methods have been used to review cases where a vulnerable adult has died or been seriously harmed, the method chosen largely depending upon whether a single agency or multi-agency approach is required. Serious Case Reviews (SCRs) are more frequently used in cases requiring a multi-agency approach; however, their effectiveness in terms of being timely, value for money and a means of learning lessons has been questioned. Safeguarding Adult Boards (SAB) in the East Midlands have sought alternative means for reviewing some cases including the Significant Incident Learning Process (SILP). The purpose of this paper is to explore the experience of facilitating and evaluating a pilot SILP. Design/methodology/approach – The paper explores the purpose and function of the SILP and then examines the process of facilitating a “live” event. A range of issues are explored including who should be involved, concerns around participation and working alongside criminal/police investigations and/or therapeutic intervention. Findings – The findings are discussed and highlight the need for skilled, independent facilitators and robust “ground rules”. The paper evaluates the process and makes recommendations for further use of SILP. Originality/value – This paper explores a new approach to reviewing cases previously reviewed using SCR, as such it will be of interest to all agencies and organisations represented on SAB. The evaluation of the SILP found it to be favourable in comparison with SCRs in terms of cost, being a process that can be completed within three months of an incident occurring and in terms of timely dissemination of lessons learned.