The National Evaluation of the Childrens Fund

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The National Evaluation of theChildrens Fund
Presentation to West Midlands Regional Research
Forum March 11th 2004 Paul Mason, University of
Birmingham
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• Who we are
• Two teams in two institutions
• Multi-disciplinary
• Birminghams Feasibility Study

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• Current and recent activity
• Setting up
• Scoping
• Mapping
• Case Study Research Phase 1
• Thematic Research

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The evaluation design Initial 3-year contract
5-year flexible design Two strands of
activity A Impact, IoE use of existing
surveys and data sources to minimise
burden B Process, UoB models of prevention
through case studies Principles inclusive
facilitative responsive minimise burden
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• Case study research
• Building on existing knowledge
• Developmental approach
• Structured work programme
• Detailed area based work
• Thematic work across case study sites

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• Knowledge management
• Role of evaluation in informing policy and
  practice
• The needs of different audiences
• ICT
• Reference groups

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Early messages Childrens Fund as a driver in
partnership working in prevention The
development of cross agency understanding of
needs and prevention The building of knowledge
and skills that can inform the wider policy
context
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• Annual report themes
• CF as a catalyst a sophisticated assault on
  the social exclusion of children
• Enhanced profile for prevention
• Strategic multi agency collaboration evident,
  provider collaboration less evident
• Challenges and opportunities of participation