Review of the Medway Making Every Adult Matter (MEAM) Approach and Medway Multiple Disadvantage Network (MMDN)

Task 

The Making Every Adult Matter (MEAM) approach in Medway was introduced in 2022 to provide more coordinated support for people facing multiple disadvantage; including homelessness, substance use, poor mental health, and contact with the criminal justice system. Delivered in partnership by Medway Council, NHS Kent and Medway Integrated Care Board (ICB), and local organisations, the initiative aimed to improve access to services and reduce system barriers for individuals with the most complex needs. 

The Medway Multiple Disadvantage Network (MMDN) was established to operationalise the MEAM approach and form a cross-sector platform for driving long-term, systemic change. Together, MEAM and MMDN sought to bridge the gaps in service provision and create a more joined-up response in Medway. 

TONIC was commissioned by Medway Council to independently evaluate the MEAM approach and the MMDN. The objectives of the review were to: 

  • Assess the impact of the MEAM approach on individuals and systems. 

  • Assess the effectiveness of the MMDN activities specific to the multi service approach.      

  • Examine coordination and partnership working across sectors. 

  • Evaluate the sustainability and scalability of the current model. 

  • Identify challenges, barriers, and opportunities for system change. 

  • Gather insights from strategic stakeholders, frontline practitioners, and people with lived experience. 

Our Approach 

The review adopted a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data analysis with qualitative research. TONIC reviewed local service data, strategic documentation, operational records, survey responses and conducted in-depth interviews with stakeholders across health, housing, justice, and voluntary sectors. 

To understand the impact of MEAM on clients, both case studies and in-depth interviews were conducted and reviewed. Triangulating these findings with service activity data and stakeholder feedback helped to build a fuller picture of the model’s early-stage impact and longer-term potential. 

Once the interviews were completed, transcripts were thematically analysed, which aided the identification of recurring patterns and common themes, which were triangulated with survey responses and available client case data.     

Outcome 

TONIC produced an extensive written report detailing the findings of the review. Six key findings were reflected upon, highlighting the current progress and effectiveness of MEAM and MMDN, the structures and their influence. 

TONIC proposed eight actionable recommendations in order to support Medway’s next phase of development. The proposed next steps considered the current usage of the MEAM approach and MMDN in Medway, alongside the priorities identified through the review.