Linking prevention science and community engagement: the case of the Ireland Disadvantaged Children and Youth Programme

Authors:
AXFORD Nick, et al
Journal article citation:
Journal of Children's Services, 3(1), September 2008, pp.40-54.
Publisher:
Emerald

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) are acknowledged to provide the most reliable estimate of programme effectiveness, yet relatively few are undertaken in children's services. This article discusses potential remedies for improving both the knowledge base and the quality of interventions. It focuses on 'operating systems' that link prevention science and community engagement and so help communities, agencies and local authorities to choose effective prevention, early intervention and treatment models. Specifically it describes an attempt in Ireland to implement a robust programme of research into children's health and development, to rigorously design new services, evaluate their impact to the highest standard (using RCTs) and integrate the results into the policy process. The article reflects on the unforeseen challenges and offers lessons for others starting a similar enterprise.

Subject terms:
prevention, randomised controlled trials, child development, communities, early intervention, evaluation, evidence-based practice, health;
Content type:
practice example
Location(s):
Ireland
Link:
Journal home page
ISSN print:
1746-6660

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