Cordis Bright has published the latest set of reports for the evaluation of the MEAM Approach network.
The Year 3 main report is structured around 15 key findings and accompanied by a technical appendix.
In addition, this year there is also a thematic report, which presents in-depth research on MEAM partnership structures in local areas. Local areas can use this thematic report to assess the strengths and areas for development of their partnership structures.
Key findings from the main report include:
- Individuals are being support to make a range of positive improvements in their lives as measured by the Outcomes Star and New Directions Team Assessment. Particular progress is being made around accommodation, offending and social networks. Progress in relation to mental health remains more challenging.
- There are statistically significant decreases in A&E attendances (a decrease of 0.4 attendances per client per quarter, a 54% decrease) and the number of arrests (a decrease of 0.3 arrests per quarter per client, a 41% decrease). These reductions are associated with reductions in costs.
- There is a 53% point decrease in the number of people sleeping rough, from 57% to 4%. This successful transition from rough sleeping into accommodation generates an increase in accommodation costs.
- Strong strategic leadership, consistent representation from a wide range of relevant partners and strong relationships between individuals are key to the success of local partnerships. The prevalence and efficacy of these partnership structures varies by local area and is explored in this year’s thematic partnership report
- There are growing levels of systems flexibility in MEAM Approach areas, including emerging evidence that this is becoming embedded in some types of housing provision. Services are coordinating better with one another particularly at specific points in clients’ journeys. In many areas multiple disadvantage coordinators and inter-personal relationships continue to be central to support coordination. This is positive, but may pose challenges for wide-reaching system change.
Download the reports here: