An evaluation of Halton Borough Council’s Family Hub Emotional Wellbeing Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT) found that the team filled a key early intervention gap. It was aimed at families experiencing mild to moderate perinatal mental health needs, and it led to positive outcomes for families, professionals, and the wider system.

Background

The evaluation project assessed the impact of the Emotional Wellbeing MDT approach within Halton Borough Council’s Family Hub. The focus was on support for families experiencing mild to moderate perinatal mental health needs. The evaluation, conducted by NHS Midlands and Lancashire’s Improvement Unit, aimed to understand the model and whether the support offered influenced outcomes for families and the wider system.

Action

The evaluation used a logic model to provide a clear, visual roadmap of the Emotional Wellbeing MDT support, outlining how inputs lead to activities, outputs, and eventually, desired outcomes and impacts. This approach focused on the key components of the MDT model and their relationship to the overall vision and aims. Inputs included resources, both human and material, invested in the MDT model. Activities were the specific actions or interventions undertaken by the MDT. Outputs were the immediate services or interventions resulting from the MDT’s activities. Outcomes were the changes that occurred as a result of the MDT’s outputs, and impact referred to the broader changes resulting from these outcomes.

The evaluation involved background research into perinatal mental health aligned to the Emotional Wellbeing MDT model. Research included qualitative and quantitative data and engagement sessions (one-to-one or group discussions). It gathered information on MDT delivery, impact, and suggestions for improvement. All data and evidence were analysed and formulated into a final report, supported by recommendations to further support and enhance delivery of the MDT.

Impact

The evaluation achieved its aims and presented findings in a final report in line with the logic model. The findings were presented at the Halton Family Hub Steering Group, which endorsed the findings and recommendations for future progression. The evaluation clearly demonstrated the positive impact the MDT has had on families, professionals, and the wider system. The MDT filled a significant early intervention gap for mild to moderate perinatal mental health. The outcomes and impact are evident, and the recommendations will support and enhance the MDT offer moving forward.

Stakeholder engagement throughout the evaluation was exceptional. Many expressed interest in the findings and opportunities to build on them, further developing the culture of shared learning across Halton. The evaluation supported a greater understanding of how the Emotional Wellbeing MDT is delivered and implemented, identifying successes, gaps, and challenges, and providing evidence-based recommendations for future decision making.

Feedback

“We were extremely pleased with the evaluation process carried out by the Improvement Unit. Their approach was thorough, collaborative, and respectful of our team’s input. The findings were clear, evidence-based, and provided valuable insights that will help us strengthen our services. We appreciated the professionalism and transparency throughout the process and would happily work with them again.”
— Adam Hindhaugh, Strategic Lead for Early Help & Family Hubs

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