From the asylum to the community : A longitudinal study of staff involved in the transition from Tone Vale Hospital to community-based services

A longitudinal study of the effects on staff (N =108) of the transition from a Victorian asylum to dispersed community-based services is reported. The majority of staff supported the policy of community care in general and following the closure, two-thirds thought it better for staff, although only half considered it was better for people with mental health problems. Four months after the closure there was little change in perceived job responsibilities, but after a year working in the new services very significant changes were reported in working practices, in line with a more communityorientated and therapeutic model. Throughout the transition, relatively low levels of stress were reported and job satisfaction was high. Role clarity and low role conflict were predictors of low stress and job satisfaction. Job satisfaction was also predicted by supportive management and job responsibilities. The study demonstrates that major changes in working environments and in job responsibilities can be accomplished ...