Evaluation Title

Review of "Family Man" - an intervention provided by Safe Ground

Type of evaluation

Data type Qualitative

Evaluation Focus Distinctive contribution of Arts, Impact of arts-based approaches, Impact of programme, Improved model of delivery, Learning outcomes, Theoretical basis of programme

Key indicators Attitudes to parenting, Attitudinal change, Behavioural change, Estimate of impact, Impact on Institution, Methodological rigour, Programme completion, Programme design, Programme integrity, Relationships with families, Relationships with staff

Project outputs Accreditation, Arts-based workshops, Structured workshop programme

Model of change Social Learning Theories

Methodologies Data analysis, Evaluation reviews, Literature search, Programme analysis

Summary of evaluation

This review, by the Commissioning Strategies Group (CSG) of NOMS, examines the elements of the programme design and delivery of the Safe Ground 'Family Man' propgramme in relation to CSG standards for effective interventions. It covers:

As part of the development of the 'Family Man' programme, Safe Ground asked that NOMS, through the Commissioning Strategies Group (CSG), review and evaluate their latest version of its manuals, CD Rom. Given that the materials were due to be further updated it was agreed that CSG would provide verbal feedback via a number of meetings and then await submission of final versions of programme documentation before completing a comprehensive written review. At the end of October 2010, the complete new set of programme materials were submitted to CSG.

Project description

Family Man is a structured, drama-based, educational programme designed for use in HM Prisons and has been delivered for several years in a number of prison establishments. The overall objective of the programme is to help maintain links between prisoners and their families during the difficult period of separation.

In parallel, the programme is also designed to help support families, by sustaining links between fathers, mothers and children, where possible preserving the parenting process and making a long-term contribution to reducing risk of future delinquency amongst developing children (Family Man Theory Manual, 2009).

Key Quote

"It is our opinion that now that the key recommendations made by CSG have been addressed, Family Man is a potentially useful intervention that relates to an established reducing reoffending pathway. It is important that Safe Ground continue to develop and maintain good links between them, children & family services in the community and the implementation teams in the establishments where Family Man is delivered. "


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Arts Alliance Evidence Library