Research

The research team conducts both qualitative and quantitative research independently and in partnership with other institutions. Projects are diverse, although priority is given to work that enhances the knowledge base behind the organisation's ongoing policy activities and programme development. We also undertake commissioned research.

Current projects

Self-directed Support: Access to independent support and advice

Children in Scotland has been funded to help implement the Scottish Government’s commitment to the provision of independent advice and support for children and young people on Self-directed Support. We will be:

1. Reviewing the current availability of independent support and advice for children, young people and their families.
2. Reviewing the current literature about the preferences of children, young people and their families in relation to securing advice and support.
3. Raising awareness of the range of support available to children and families.
4. Consulting and engaging with children, young people, parents and other stakeholders to develop recommendations for future delivery of information and support to ensure effective implementation of self-directed support.

1-3 will be completed by mid 2013 and 4 will take place in 2013-15.

For more information on this piece of work please contact Sara Collier, scollier@childreninscotland.org.uk 0131 222 2412.

Developing an Outcomes Model for Disabled Children and Young People in Scotland

Children in Scotland is working on a Scottish Government project to develop an Outcomes Model for disabled children and young people in Scotland, which will have real practical application. Our aim is to begin the challenging process of capturing meaningful outcomes and indicators for this diverse population as well as to map any differences in approach or knowledge gaps.

Click here to read more

Recent projects

Exploration of the information support needs of parents (2011-12)

Shelter Scotland (2010-2011)

Having a Say at School: research on pupil councils in Scotland (2006-2009)

Truth and consequences for the Kibble boys (2008-2009)

Completed projects

This link takes you to a database of completed research projects.

Published research

This link takes you to published research for purchase or free download

Exploration of the information support needs of parents (2011-12)

This research was carried out by Children in Scotland on behalf of NHS Health Scotland and was completed in May 2012. The aim of this research was to explore the information support experiences, needs and preferences of parents with young children, especially very young children, living in Scotland and focused on 3 specific groups, (1) fathers (2) young parents and (3) parents with literacy issues. This exploration included how parents obtained information and support in relation to both parenting, in general, and child health issues, in particular. It is the companion to the report that was published in 2010 that explored the information support needs of parents from the perspective of practitioners who advocate on their behalf.

Final Report

Executive Summary

A video explaining the findings can be viewed by clicking here

Shelter Scotland (2010-2011)
Shelter Scotland commissioned Children in Scotland to undertake research into ways in which the education sector can help to minimise the impact of homelessness on children’s learning. A researcher consulted with children and parents affected by homelessness and professionals within the housing and education sectors. The findings were combined with the good practice and lessons learned through Shelter Scotland’s Keys to the Future programme to create the content for the website www.homelesschildren.org.uk

In 2012 Homeless, Not Hopeless: How small changes can make a big difference in the quality of education for homeless students was published. This publication is for adults who, knowingly or without initially being aware, come into regular contact with homeless children and young people.

Homeless, Not Hopeless: How small changes can make a big difference in the quality of education for homeless students

Having a Say at School: research on pupil councils in Scotland (2006-2009)

This three year, in-depth look at pupil councils in Scotland was researched by Children in Scotland and the University of Edinburgh, with funding from the Big Lottery Fund.

Having a Say at School (HASAS), the largest Scottish study of pupil councils ever undertaken, identified ways to boost pupil council effectiveness including establishing a fair process for selecting representatives, enhancing good two-way communication, and ensuring continuity from year to year – with the biggest influence on success being the attitude of staff and adult advisors.

The study provided the first evidence ever on the realities of pupil councils nationwide, and was based on research in every secondary, independent and special school in Scotland, a large sample of primary schools, and all 32 local authorities.

Results show pupil councils differ in how they are set up and run, but that they can be a vital link in the chain of decision making within a school, giving students a real voice in improving school life.

To find out more about this research, visit the project website: www.havingasayatschool.org.uk

Truth and consequences for the Kibble boys (2008-2009)

The Kibble Education and Care Centre leaders asked Children in Scotland to find out more than is currently known about what is true in terms of the lives of Kibble participants before, during and after their time in Kibble’s care.

Kibble is committed to doing an even better job of helping the boys and young men entrusted to its care. Knowing what is really true about these individuals can assist in understanding what changes should be made in the future.

Benefits for Kibble include better assessment/placement, improvement to policies, practices and programmes and improved outcomes for Kibble participants. Children in Scotland also hopes that this research will influence the policies and practices of local authorities and the Scottish Government.

In summary, Children in Scotland looked at:

-What information about the boys’ lives already exists and is used

-What additional information could be useful

-Kibble’s assessment and placement processes

-How the boys can express their views at Kibble and in what way their views are heard and heeded

-How life has developed for those who left Kibble in recent years