Whatever the task, without proper resources – at the very least, adequate – it is not possible to the best job you could. Check the following list against needs for your own work –

Time

Adequate time to meet with clients/patients/pupils; support staff and others involved in care read reports and keep up to date with new research and approaches time to relax and recharge personal batteries.

Accurate (all-round) Information

About :

• Each client/patient/pupil’s condition, all aspects
• any changes in condition

Accurate all-round info essential to providing the most effective care possible can be found in:

• books (search widely!) websites e.g. www.amazon.com, bookshops (new and second hand)
• journals – professional
• research papers
• websites and recommended reading lists – relevant self help and charity groups
• training videos, DVDs
• colleagues involved in similar fields of work
• family, home and other informal carers

Energy

Personal – depending on time pressures; health issues; sleep; adequate or not?

Accommodation

Adequate space for consultation – clinic? office?  Inpatient/outpatient accommodation as necessary?  Admin space?  Teaching space?

Furniture for above; replacement of furniture as necessary.

Support

• Training, updated regularly
• Supervision – opportunities to share problems, exploration of possible solutions
• Practical support
  • Secretarial, organisational
  • Appropriate support staff – nurses, therapists, teachers, cleaners?
  • Record keeping – accurate and up-to-date

Equipment

• Telephone
• Computer
• Specialist

Finance

To develop and consolidate all the above…