Research project that explored how interagency working could put such policy and guidance into practice and considered what this work might look like at grassroots level. It used a mixed-method approach comprising action research and quantitative analysis of questionnaires completed by research practitioners. The methodology was found to be effective as it supported the aims and objectives of the research. It also empowered the researchers and the research participants developing practice.
The main findings emerged in four main themes: interagency working, professional development, training and support and sustainability of the work. This research found that interagency working was important for professional development as well as delivering effective services. Action research supported practitioners’ professional development and had a very positive impact on their confidence in meeting their duty with regard to equality of opportunity. This confidence had a positive effect on their own and their settings practice as professionals shared their learning with other staff.