research report

Cognitive-behavioral treatment with adult alcohol and illicit drug users: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Cognitive-behavioural therapies are among the most widespread and influential approaches to substance use, yet this analysis found they conferred just a small advantage over other therapies. Perhaps other features are more important than the therapeutic 'brand'.

Recruitment and Retention Lessons from Beyond the Social Services Sector

Effective recruitment and retention of a competent workforce is critical to developing and improving on the delivery of services that are increasingly funded through competitive public sector contracts. While there are numerous examples of ways in which the sector has addressed recruitment and retention challenges, both among small as well as large players, this study aims to look at whether we can learn anything from looking beyond the social services sector.

Parenting in multi-racial Britain

Parenting has increasingly become the focus for policy and academic debate. The racial and cultural heterogeneity of British society also invites considerable attention to many aspects of the lives of minority ethnic families. Yet, there is little empirical evidence into ethnicity, parenting and family life. This study, by Ravinder Barn at Royal Holloway, University of London, explores the views and experiences of 'ordinary' parents to increase our understanding in some key areas, including family support, education, child discipline and the process of acculturation.

Disabled people's costs of living

It is well known that disabled people face additional costs to enable them to meet their needs. However, there has been no clear evidence about the true extent of these costs. This research, conducted by the Centre for Research in Social Policy with the support of Disability Alliance, presents budget standards for groups of disabled people who have different needs arising from physical or sensory impairments.

Food affordability, access and security: their implications for Scotland's food policy - a report by Work Stream 5 of the Scottish Government's Food Forum

As part of the Forum set up by Ministers to develop a National Food and Drink Policy, a group has met to consider issues related with food affordability, food access and food security. The group has reviewed existing evidence on these issues and has developed a series of proposals which it feels could be taken ahead in Scotland.

What makes parenting programmes work in disadvantaged areas?

There is increasing enthusiasm, both in government and in the community, for improving child outcomes through parenting programmes. This drive encompasses the ‘Surestart’ and ‘Respect’ agendas, and emphasises the importance of children’s centres and school-based support. However, many programmes have failed to work when rigorously tested. This study examines factors which influence programme effectiveness in poor, ethnically diverse areas.

Mapping the terrain : 16-19 funding transfer (LGA research report)

In April 2010 the Learning and Skills Council in England will be abolished and responsibility for planning and commissioning education and training for 16–18 year olds will move to local authorities. This report looks at local authorities’ early experiences of the transfer to help inform planning, especially with regard to work- force capacity.

Bullying: third report of session 2006–07

There has been an increasing awareness over the past few decades of bullying and the effect it has on the educational and social achievements of children and young people.

Evidence on the effects of bullying were taken which suggested that it causes a number of problems ranging from general unhappiness, poor concentration, low-self esteem, psychosomatic symptoms and anxiety to depression, self-harm or suicide.

This report was appointed by the House of Commons to examine the expenditure, administration and policy.