Evaluation report
A mixed-methods realist evaluation of the Sutton Parenting Offer (universal parenting programme): A study protocol
Varela-Mato V, Ngina DM, Orton E, Barnes J ·
Summary
Written by AI, not yet AICS's view · claude-haiku-4-5-20251001This document outlines a study protocol for evaluating the Sutton Parenting Offer, a universal parenting programme in England that supports families with children aged 0-25 years. The programme combines evidence-based parenting courses with informal workshops and peer networks delivered through Family Hubs. The evaluation will use mixed methods including surveys, interviews, and administrative data to understand how and why the programme engages families and supports positive change. The study aims to generate evidence on the effectiveness and value of community-based, peer-led parenting support.
Key points
- The Sutton Parenting Offer is a universal, non-stigmatising parenting programme for families with children aged 0-25 years
- The programme combines evidence-based programmes with informal workshops and peer-led support delivered through Family Hubs
- The evaluation uses a mixed-methods realist approach across four work packages: engagement pathways, early changes and peer-led ecosystems, long-term change, and system value
- Data collection includes attendance records, entry and exit surveys, dyad interviews, story circles, and stakeholder workshops
- The analysis will use behavioural frameworks (COM-B and Theoretical Domains Framework) and realist-informed approaches to identify context-mechanism-outcome configurations
Limitations
This is a study protocol rather than completed evaluation findings, so no evidence of effectiveness is yet available. The protocol does not provide information about the sample size, timeline, or preliminary results.
Abstract
ABSTRACT Background Parenting practices shape children’s emotional, social, and cognitive developmental wellbeing. Yet, many families face complex challenges that increase the risk of poor outcomes and demand on social care. The Sutton Parenting Offer (SPO) is a universal, peer-led parenting offer that provides early, non-stigmatising support to families with children aged 0-25 years. It combines evidence-based programmes with informal workshops and peer networks delivered through Family Hubs. This present study is an evaluation protocol of the parenting offer. Aim This evaluation aims to explore how, why, and in what contexts SPO supports families in engaging, sustaining positive change, and generating wider system value. Methods A mixed-methods realist evaluation approach will be used to evaluate SPO across four work packages: engagement pathways, early changes and peer-led ecosystems, long-term change, and system value for money. Data sources will include attendance data (anonymised service records), survey data (entry and exit), and qualitative data (dyad interviews, story circles, and stakeholder-value mapping workshops). The COM-B and the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) will guide the analysis of behavioural data. Quantitative data will be analysed descriptively and using paired parametric and non-parametric tests, while qualitative data will be analysed thematically following a realist-informed approach to refine context-mechanism-outcome (CMO) configurations. Discussion This protocol presents the first realist informed evaluation of a universal parenting program in a local authority setting. The evaluation will generate evidence on how, when and why a universal, community-based, and peer-led model such as the Sutton Parenting Offer engages families and generates change. The findings will be useful to inform future parenting service design and implementation in local contexts in England.