Assessing the Impact of the First Steps Programme on Families.V1
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A comparative study assessing the impact of the First Steps Programme on the health and wellbeing of babies, children and families.
IRAS ID
140894
Contact name
Susan Frew
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
School of Health, Nursing and Midwifery
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 9 months, 8 days
Research summary
A comparative study assessing the impact of the First Steps Programme on the health and wellbeing of babies, children and families.
The First Steps Programme (FSP) is based in Lanarkshire and works with first time mothers, identified by Midwives or Health Visitors as requiring additional support. FSP activities undertaken are negotiated with the individual families based on their needs; as a result the FSP is a family focused tailored service. Early interventions focused on supporting babies, children and families are accepted as having the potential to improve outcomes, for those involved directly in the intervention/s and for society. Although evidence around early interventions is available there are gaps, such as which interventions are most effective? This research will assist in answering this question.
To answer this question it is necessary to consider the outcomes of babies, children and families that have participated in interventions with the outcomes of those in similar circumstances who have not received interventions. The aim of this research, commissioned by the Community Planning Partnership, is to investigate the aspects of the First Steps Programme that have affected participant’s outcomes. This study will be conducted using a sequential explanatory strategy, conducting a quantitative approach then using a qualitative approach to help explain the results. Analysis and comparison of the existing FSP client quantitative data will be used to draw comparisons with the national data source Growing Up in Scotland (GUS). The findings from the quantitative phase will be enhanced by qualitative data gathered through face to face interviews conducted with two samples of FSP clients.
This research will aid the programme to develop more effectively through identifying what outcomes are affected by programme participation. It will also aid NHS Lanarkshire to assess the contribution the First Steps Programme is making towards delivering the aims of the Scottish Governments guiding policies.
REC name
London - Fulham Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
15/LO/0504
Date of REC Opinion
17 Mar 2015
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion