In this new-look newsletter, we share CEI's latest news, views and achievements, along with an update on EIS 2023. Find out more about three elements of successful scaling-up for social programs, the vital role of early nurturing care for young children, and CEI's recent work with youth, family and early intervention projects.
EIS 2023 news: Dr Vivian Tseng will be speaking
CEI and our co-hosts, Monash University and the National University of Singapore’s Behavioural and Implementation Science Interventions, are delighted that Dr Vivian Tseng, President and CEO of the Foundation for Child Development (FCD, USA), will be a speaker at the 2023 Evidence and Implementation Summit (EIS).
Vivian is widely recognised for her leadership in interdisciplinary research on the use of evidence in policy and practice, and in expanding research-practice partnerships. At EIS, Vivian will address the topic: "Meeting the moment: Democratising evidence for policy, practice, and the public."
Vivian will reflect on how we can collectively democratise evidence by grounding our work in historical context, analysing power, and prioritising self-determination, concluding with recommendations for building an equitable and democratic evidence ecosystem.
EIS 2023 brings together experts from across the globe to share their experiences in generating and implementing evidence for better policy and practice.
Scaling up: The ultimate challenge!
Taking a social program from a successful small-scale pilot to a large-scale roll-out is hugely challenging and, unfortunately, very often unsuccessful.
In this blog, leading implementation science scholar and practitioner and Managing Director in CEI's London office, Jane Lewis, shares three elements of successful scaling up: a focus on the endgame, a focus on users and their needs, and a commitment to continual adaptation.
Supporting a better response for children and families
A CEI-supported initiative which provides intensive, evidence-based and coordinated support to vulnerable children and their families – and to young people already in care – has reduced the number of children entering care services by nearly 10% in its first two years, with 56 additional children diverted from out-of-home care.
Enhancing the Chrysalis youth program
CEI has been working with a Singapore-based youth outreach program, Chrysalis, to examine key activities, prioritise outcomes, and identify monitoring tools.
The Chrysalis team at Trybe, a social services agency, works closely with families to provide emotional support, improve relationships, and support young people to grow and thrive.
Early action a plus for "no recourse" families
It is estimated that more 300,000 children in the UK have “No Recourse to Public Funds” (NRPF) due to their immigration status – meaning they and their families are excluded from most mainstream welfare provision.
CEI recently evaluated a program operated by Hackney Local Authority – the No Recourse Early Action model – that seeks to support these families through an early intervention approach, aiming to improve outcomes for children and provide better value to local authorities.
The benefits of early nurturing care
CEI Director Dr Cheryl Seah has published an article in the latest MENDAKI Policy Digest, highlighting the vital role of early nurturing care in child development. Yayasan MENDAKI is one of Singapore’s leading social sector agencies.
Cheryl's article summarises recent research, with accessible guidance on the importance of supporting parental mental wellbeing, as well as outlining practical ways to create a conducive home environment for children.
Publications and knowledge sharing
Can common elements support a public health approach to child maltreatment?
A peer-reviewed publication led by CEI in the International Journal on Child Maltreatment.
Healthy sleep habits in children and adolescents: Why do they matter and what can we do?
A new downloadable evidence insight from CEI's partner, the Centre for Holistic Initiatives for Learning and Development (CHILD) at the National University of Singapore.
Implications of COVID for early childhood education and care in England
A major study on the pandemic's impact on early childhood education and care (ECEC) services in England. Funded by the Nuffield Foundation, CEI developed the study in partnership with researchers from the University of East London, Institute for Fiscal Studies, Frontier Economics and Coram Family and Childcare.
Early intervention investment framework
CEI was commissioned by the Victorian Government (Australia) to inform development of this framework to guide early intervention and deliver better outcomes across the service system. The framework highlights seven features of successful early intervention systems.
Opportunities
- We are seeking an Executive Assistant to join CEI's Melbourne office, a critically important role in a dynamic and flexible environment. Applications close on 13 March.
- Do you know exceptional students or recent graduates with an interest in research that can have real-world impact? CEI Singapore is seeking interns for paid positions.
- The free online course Pathways to Research Impact, focusing on uptake and translation of research, is available now – and endorsed in this tweet.