"Strengthening Families Programme" Makes Long Term Impact

Ballymun Local Drugs & Alcohol Task Force recently launched the first comprehensive follow up study in Ireland to examine the long term impacts of the Ballymun Strengthening Families Programme (SFP).  

The study was undertaken by Sandra Roe, an independent researcher, to examine the impacts of this programme on family and community life between 2008 and 2014. Using a mixed methods approach & consulting with more than 45% of all 132 graduating families, the study concluded that “SFP has benefited families through improved communication and relationships between parents and teenagers, improved parenting skills and teenagers social skills…” and has created “stronger families with less conflict”. The programme was also found to have had additional benefits including increased confidence, educational benefits and increased relationships within the community.

Launching the study, John Lyons, TD, commended the families and agencies involved, citing the programme as a “win-win” for families, agencies, schools and the wider community. A copy of the full report is available here or you can visit our website for further details www.ballymunlocaldrugstaskforce.ie . 

This 14-week, evidence based family skills course for parents & teens/children is actively operating in more than 20 counties across the island of Ireland since 2007. The interagency support in each community stems from stakeholders of family support, youth work, addiction services, employment services, the Gardaí, Probation, schools, among others, who join together to ensure the programme is planned, implemented and evaluated each term.  

To support the development of SFP in Ireland, the National SFP Council of Ireland was established in 2012, as an inter-regional network of SFP Trainers and Managers from across Ireland. Chaired by Ballymun Local Drugs & Alcohol Task Force, the aim is to support the development and expansion of SFP nationwide through training, advocacy and evaluation. More information can be found at our new website: www.sfpcouncilireland.ie  . 

For further information, please contact:                                                                   Cliodhna Mahony, BLDATF                                                                                       Chair, National SFP Council of Ireland. 

cliodhna@ballymundtf.ie or 01 8832142