Thesis (M.A.)--Royal Roads University (Canada), 2009
This action research study explores the change process as it impacts the frontline staff working in Acute Psychiatric Services at Lions Gate Hospital. An operational review of these services was recently conducted, which recommended significant restructuring of the acute psychiatric services. This research engaged staff in a World Cafe process to further their understanding and acceptance of the new emerging culture of change and to determine their needs as they progress through the change process. The major findings were that as trust, relationships, and communication increases, so do the shared values that will enable the cultural shift to happen. The key recommendations from this study include using formal and informal communication, celebrating change initiatives, developing a change management tool, and clarifying roles and responsibilities of leadership positions. This in turn will assist the staff to be engaged in the work setting to create a system of greater capacity
