Australian programs and workforce initiatives for children and their families where a parent has a mental illness

Abstract

The aim of this study was to review the child, parent and family programs and workforce initiatives in Australia that target children and families where a parent has a mental illness. Fifty two individual telephone interviews were conducted with facilitators responsible for 60 child, parent, family and workforce programs across Australia. Interviewees were asked to describe (i) the program provided, (ii) the evidence framework of the program, and (iii) evaluation strategies employed. To supplement this data, three consumers and one carer were interviewed regarding their involvement in programs. Participants were identified through websites, e-discussion lists and snowball recruiting. Audio transcripts from the interviews were qualitatively analysed, using thematic analysis, alongside inter-rater reliability and member checks. Of the 60 identified programs, there were 26 child and adolescent programs, six programs for parents with a mental illness, four family programs and 24 workforce training initiatives. Program facilitators typically drew on their clinical experiences, rather than research, when developing programs. Generally, evaluation strategies were non standardised and/or measured participant satisfaction of programs. There was no systematic way of involving and supporting consumers and carers. Recommendations are made regarding evaluation training, a participation framework for consumers and carers, funding for programs, and the establishment of a formal network for sharing resources and facilitator experiences.