The aim of the research project is to evaluate the pilot of Step UP Step Down in Wales. It has run in Northern Ireland previously and been well received.
Overview
Step Up Step Down is a preventative programme for families with children on the edge of care, which aims to prevent problems from escalating, strengthen family relationships and build families’ capacity and networks of support. Families are matched with a Family Support Foster Carer, who provides mentoring and practical support to parents alongside short breaks for children and young people. Support is provided over a 12–15-month period and also includes parent training programmes, children’s groups and family activities in the community. Following positive evaluations in Northern Ireland, the Welsh Government funded The Fostering Network in Wales to pilot Step Up Step Down in Pembrokeshire and Powys, with the aim of supporting children to remain safely within, or return to, their families wherever possible.
Activities and Methods
The Fostering Network in Wales commissioned CASCADE to undertake an independent evaluation of the Step Up Step Down pilots in Wales. The evaluation was conducted in two phases to include the implementation of the programme in Pembrokeshire and Powys. The first phase, undertaken between April 2024 and March 2026, focused on the implementation of Step Up Step Down in Pembrokeshire and explored experiences of the programme, areas of good practice and opportunities for further development, as well as how the programme contributed to its intended outcomes.
The evaluation included interviews with parents, Family Support Foster Carers, social workers, staff from The Fostering Network in Wales and Local Authority Senior Leads involved in the programme. Children shared their experiences through creative workshops, and researchers also observed Family Days, a Nurture Group and a Children’s Summer Scheme. In addition, routine feedback collected by The Fostering Network in Wales following training sessions was analysed to provide further insight into the delivery and perceived impact of the service.
Findings
This project is ongoing.
See below to read the executive summary and evaluation report of the Step Up Step Down Pilot Programme in Pembrokeshire:
Other
Lead Person
| Principal Investigators | Louise Roberts & Dawn Mannay |
Other Persons
| Sylvia Stevenson |
| Emily Baker |
Related Information
| Related Schools | N/A |
| Related partners | The Fostering Network |
| Funders | The Fostering Network |
| Related publications | N/A |
| Related links | N/A |
| Related documents | N/A |