Early Adopter Communities - process evaluation: research findings

Implementation of systems change

EACs had scoped established childcare services and spent time building buy-in among stakeholders during the design stage. Staff noted that it can take time to embed change and to build trust with stakeholders.

EAC governance and partnership working appeared to be working well, especially having project leads working at a strategic level and linking with other child poverty initiatives. EACs had formed partnerships with a range of partners at both the strategic and operational levels.

Although the focus of this report is on processes rather than impacts, it also notes early indications of some systems-level outcomes being achieved. Enablers included Scottish Government support; governance structures that facilitate close relationships; a range of partners; committed staff with a common goal; and regular contact with partners.

There was agreement among staff and stakeholders that, in principle, EAC services could be adopted in other areas. Project leads and stakeholders stressed the need for multi-year funding to retain staff and plan services effectively. Other perceived enablers included support from the local authority; applying learning from the current EACs; existing stakeholder relationships and integrating provision into local areas.

However, sustainability of the EACs was thought to rely on continued Scottish Government funding. Various barriers were also mentioned, particularly ongoing workforce challenges, but also the capacity of existing provision, Care Inspectorate staffing ratios and obtaining appropriate physical spaces.