Scaling Evidence-Based Programs in Child Welfare
Submitted by rgordon on Tue, 02/11/2020 - 08:59
This report discusses governments addressing this challenge in three different program areas—those highlighted in the 2018 Family First Prevention Services Act as important to reducing child maltreatment by increasing investments in three kinds of prevention services—home visiting, mental health services, and substance abuse services.
Lester points to two key factors that influence success or failure in scaling evidence- based programs:
- Successful scaling requires active and targeted support from sponsoring federal and state agencies.
- Supportive management infrastructure and sufficient resources can ensure quality and fidelity to core program components.
The author describes a series of success stories and lessons learned in evidence- based prevention interventions for home visiting, mental health services, and substance abuse services.
We hope this report helps federal, state, and local officials in developing their plans to implement the 2018 Family First Prevention Services Act. More broadly, the insights and recommendations in the report can inspire public managers with insights on how to scale evidence-based pilot programs in serving individuals and communities in need.