Asset-based approaches

In 2012, Iriss undertook a project focused on understanding how an assets based approach could improve mental health and well-being within East Dunbartonshire, focusing specifically on Kirkintilloch.

WITTY is a free iPad app which enables people to visually map positive assets and factors they have and can better engage with in day to day life.

Whilst we have provided this tool on an iPad you could create a paper version yourself using A3/A4 paper and images and objects you have to hand.

The Project aimed to incorporate strength-based practice in the delivery of mental health services by piloting Personal Asset Mapping, and to broaden awareness of community assets in order to show options outside of public service delivery including through developing a Community Well-being (asset) Map. This was intended to complement rather than replace attention to the needs of people who use services.

Assets-based approaches in Italy, Quebec and Scotland.

This Insight provides an overview of the research evidence on effective strengths based approaches for working with individuals and presents selected illustrative examples, written by Lisa Pattoni.

For more information on the "Using an assets approach for positive mental health and well-being" project, please see the Asset Mapping project blog. Please note that the report is available for download in both PDF and EPUB versions above, in addition to being reproduced in full below.