There have been major initiatives to expand training for the parenting service workforce in recent years, including the establishment of the National Academy for Parenting Practitioners. In order for this new training to become embedded and to operate effectively, it is important for policy makers, commissioners and providers to have a full picture of current practice. This study makes a substantial contribution to such a critical knowledge base.

Drawing on interviews with parenting leads, managers of parenting practitioners, training providers and practitioners from health, education, children's centres and social services, the report uses detailed case studies of 10 local authorities to provide valuable insights into the factors affecting training provision in England today.

With an exploration of strategic and organisational matters, access concerns, and the integration of training into practice and supervision, the report examines the real issues that promote or stand in the way of progress. This report highlights examples of promising practice and makes recommendations for future development that will be of interest to all those engaged in the rapidly changing field of parenting services.

View all the reports in this series here.