No matter what service you deliver, from needle exchanges to Sure Start, the processes involved and the concerns of providers, are similar.
Although many problems associated with service provision can be forseen and eradicated before delivery, some only become apparent once services are operational. Of these, there are both short term and long term problems. The nature of each may be different, but the cost is similar: financial drain; entrenched practices; low morale; poor services.
The government was aware of the importance of evaluation when setting up the Sure Start initiative. Indeed, it is a requirement of all Sure Start programmes to have an annual evaluation of their services. Annual or rolling evaluation allows management to take effective, corrective action as problems arise and, importantly, to identify examples of best practise and spread these throughout the programme.
Northern Research Associates have been involved in the local evaluation of Sure Start for several years and can provide your programme with an independent evaluation using a proven methodology.
Unlike Sure Start, few health authorities effectively evaluate services.
With regard to services targetting drug users, health authorities may commission research into drug use and risk behaviours to inform future service planning. However, it is not often that services themselves are evaluated.
Best practise can only be spread when identified and evaluated.
Northern Research Associates are experienced researchers into drug use behaviours and associated health matters. Our research team have been involved in many behavioural and prevalence studies. We also conduct effective evaluation of services which enable you, the service provider, to improve the quality of your services and practises. Can you really say how effective your services are?
Evaluation ensures the spread of best practise, improves cost effectiveness and enables better targeting.