Evaluation of a training and coaching programme for family support workers using modular intervention approaches

Many people working with children and families do not have specialist training in evidence-based interventions. A modular intervention approach, utilizing common elements of effective types of interventions, enables frontline practitioners, including those not holding a relevant professional qualification, to be trained to deliver evidence-based interventions in children's services. This study evaluates a training and coaching programme to improve Family Support Workers' (FSWs) knowledge, skills and confidence in using evidence-based modular intervention approaches working with eleven FSWs from a team in a London children's services department serving a culturally diverse community. The programme evaluation used the Self-Efficacy Scale for Social Workers, a Confidence Scale and three qualitative questionnaires. The findings demonstrated this experienced group of FSWs reported increases in their confidence in the areas of their training. Statistically significant improvements in FSW's self-efficacy reflected their judgements about their improved capacity to effect change and achieve successful outcomes for children and families when using the range of modular resources. FSWs were continuing to use these approaches at five-year follow-up. During this period their supervisor trained new members of staff to use these resources. Government inspections noted the positive impact of the use of the intervention resources on outcomes for children and families. The programme, combining training, practice and coaching sessions, enabled FSWs to use modular evidenced-based tools and approaches to respond to the needs of children and families from a range of cultures resulting in improved outcomes. Supervisor involvement throughout the programme supported the continued use of the evidence-based interventions. • Modular evidenced-based approaches can be used to respond to the needs of children and families from a range of cultures. • Practitioners who do not hold a relevant professional qualification can deliver modular evidence-based approaches. • Training and coaching programmes are designed to fit the particular context of the host organisation. • Coaching sessions are essential to supporting practitioners use of resources. • Involvement of supervisors is required to ensure effective implementation.