'I haven't forgotten about you': critical lessons learned in negotiating access into the field of care management

Based on a case study, this paper discusses the issues raised and problems faced when trying to negotiate access to the system of statutory reviews for older people residing in care homes in England. Efforts to recruit participants proved to be more difficult than anticipated. However, the prolonged period of field negotiation yielded its own set of data with which to better understand the adult social care system in England. The paper provides a critical reflection on the reasons behind the care managers’ reluctance to participate and the strategies employed to deflect attention or resist involvement. The discussion provides a broader context in order to allow for wider applicability of the findings across other similar situations.