M-PACT+: supporting families affected by parental substance misuse

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present the findings from an evaluation of an intervention (Moving Parents and Children Together (M-PACT+)) aiming to address the effects of parental substance misuse (PSM) in school settings. The paper considers the evidence of effectiveness, and goes on to explore how schools were involved with the intervention.Design/methodology/approachA theory of change was developed for the intervention, which identified key steps of change that were expected for the beneficiaries (family members and children). Mixed methods were then used to form a portfolio of data to support or refute the theory. The data included quantitative validated scale data and questionnaires at various points in time with staff, and participants (including children), and qualitative data obtained from school staff, intervention staff, families and children.FindingsThis paper concludes that the evidence supports the theory that providing M-PACT+ in school settings can begin to address the effects of PSM for the families that engage with it. Further, the paper shows that the ethos of the schools involved influences how families are identified and referred, and that interventions of this kind are most likely to succeed where they are integrated into an ethos where there is a shared responsibility for a broad child well-being agenda between schools and other community agencies.Originality/valueThis paper explores the evaluation of a unique family intervention. The findings will be of value to those seeking to implement such interventions in partnership with schools and/or community agencies.