Research Questions
Using Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) research methodology, unique in social services, Families First Edmonton (FFE) research will yield learnings for service delivery providers and policy makers on how to maximize the investment in current programs and deliver them more effectively to achieve greater outcomes.
To meet that goal, FFE research is exploring specific questions:
- What are the differences between the four intervention groups (healthy family lifestyle, recreation, comprehensive, and self directed) on linkages to services?
- What are the costs to service systems of each of the intervention groups over time?
- What are the physical and psychosocial health outcomes of family members, over time, among the groups?
- What are the family and community level knowledge, skills and attitudes that support successful linkages to services?
- How can community, government, and university sectors work more effectively together? What kind of leadership, structures, personnel and processes are needed to support inter-sectoral initiatives?
In 2012, when the research is completed, the partners in FFE will analyze the results and determine what recommendations, if any, should be made to the way in which services are provided to low income families in Edmonton.
This is a collaborative approach that sees government and not-for-profit organizations working together to make the best use of existing resources.