A key objective for many is to learn about the challenges of implementing proven programmes. As Julie Anderson, Lead for Information Sharing and Assessment in Norfolk Children’s Services, reflected, “People often say ‘I take this on board but…’ – I want to get some answers to the but”.

In the same vein, Pauline Curran, Advisor for the Southern Library Board in Northern Ireland, acknowledged that “We have staff trained in Incredible Years but when we run it we get middle class families, not those who need it”.

Another issue of interest is how to ensure that programmes do not stand alone but rather come to be viewed as part of a coherent package. Meera Spillett, Deputy Director of Children’s Services in Norfolk, asked, “We have initiative-led policy but how can we get the spine?”.

Graham Allen, MP for Nottingham North, also pointed to the need for joined-up services. “We need a cycle of early intervention to prepare parents for children, children for school and children for life”. Are there lessons from the US about getting proven programs integrated in the mainstream?

Getting local authorities to think in this structured way is easier said than done. “The Treasury said that Communities that Care [one of several models for selecting and implementing proven programmes] was very important but it is very hard to get local authorities to take this on board”, observed Joyce Moseley, Chief Executive of Catch 22. This reflects a strong interest in the group to learn about how to develop a culture of support for implementing and evaluating evidence-based programmes.

Lastly, making the case for investors to fund proven programmes is another area that delegates are keen to explore. “With £20 million to spend per annum by 2012 it’s like being left in a sweet shop”, said Chris Robinson, Chief Executive of the Mayor’s Fund for London. “We want to know that what we’re spending is going to have a reasonable chance of success”.