Government releases encouraging findings from the latest evaluation of the Troubled Families Programme.

The Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government has issued it’s fourth evaluation update on the performance of the Troubled Families Programme.

The evaluation suggests the programme is having a number of benefits resulting in a positive impact on the proportion of Looked After Children, convictions and custodial sentences, and those claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance.

The most striking finding is that the programme appears to have reduced the proportion of Looked After Children though results also indicate a reduction in the proportion of adults and juveniles receiving custodial sentences and juvenile convictions. The research also shows a statistically significant difference for adults claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance 19-24 months after joining the programme.

Other benefits highlighted include:

• Families at risk are being identified more proactively leading to the provision of earlier support.
• The programme's approach to data recording and sharing between local services is creating a whole family focus.
• Relationships with schools, health and police are all improving

Read the full report here