CANparent trial evaluation: second interim report

In: https://ora.ox.ac.uk/objects/uuid:e5237e1d-f799-4e00-8b74-25ecea9f9e47

Abstract

The Government's CANparent trial of universal parenting classes (2012-14) operates in four areas. It seeks to stimulate the development of a commercial market in high quality, stigma-free parenting classes to enhance the skills and confidence of mothers and fathers. In three of the areas, Camden, Middlesbrough and High Peak, the use of vouchers is being used to support this aim. Mothers and fathers of 0-5s who live in these areas are eligible for a free voucher entitling them to access a CANparent parenting course. These vouchers are redeemed by the class providers. Providers receive £75 for every parent starting a course, and a further £25 for every parent completing the course. Voucher distribution and local support to providers is managed by the trial delivery consortium: ECORYS, in partnership with Family Lives and Orion Security Print. Vouchers are widely available, including through the Foundation Years workforce and branches of Boots in the trial areas. Since November 2012, vouchers can be downloaded by parents from the CANparent website (http://www.canparent.org). Fourteen providers in all (up to 10 in an area) are offering CANparent parenting classes differing in length, focus and delivery mode. In the fourth trial area, Bristol, there are no vouchers. Instead, some light touch support is available, such as use of the CANparent brand and website, support from corporate and other organisations, and low/no cost marketing support. Nine providers were approved to operate under the CANparent Bristol brand offering parenting classes differing in length, focus and delivery mode. The Bristol trial encourages providers to operate different funding models, such as third party subsidy, or parents paying for classes.