Managing relations in adult protection: a qualitative study of the views of social services managers in England and Wales

Collaboration or partnership between different agencies is seen as an important part of resolving problematic social issues. This article reports on findings from interviews with 32 managers working in 26 local authority social services departments that were undertaken as part of a larger study of interagency working in adult protection in England and Wales (2004–2007). Themes of managing relations, system development and prioritisation emerged from the analysis of the interviews. These findings are set in the context of developments in adult protection or safeguarding in England and Wales. The article concludes that managers perceive relationships as key in implementing aspirations for adult safeguarding, in the context of a lack of statutory obligations and sets this in the context of policy and practice.