Why is the Government running the trial?

The aim of this trial is to test ways of encouraging parents to see the value of investing in relationship support - as a preventative measure - and so encourage them to access relationship support in the future.

Evidence shows that the birth of the first child is a particular stress point for relationships. However, there is often a lack of support available at this time.

Where support programmes are available, evidence demonstrates that they can be effective in sustaining relationship satisfaction during the transition to parenthood.

Research shows that these models may well be successful in reaching and supporting some new parents. However it is clear that perceptions of relationship support, remains a significant barrier to take up - with parents continuing to perceive stigma, or not feeling relationship support would be beneficial to them.

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 Where is this trial being carried out?

This trial is only operating in England - in up to three local areas. These trial areas have not yet been selected.

We have asked approved provider bidders to recommend trial areas, which will be agreed with the Department as part of the contract negotiation process.

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 How will it work?

First time parents will be made aware of an offer of subsidised relationship support that can be accessed from an approved provider - across up to three local authority areas.

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 Will the three trial areas be top tier or bottom tier local authorities?

We have said up to three local authority (LA) areas as we appreciate that some LAs will have larger populations than others.

We have provided an indicative target figure of 6000 couples per year in up to three LA areas.

Providers could recommend LAs or local districts in their proposals - with the overall aim of targeting 6000 couples.

The number of sessions a provider can deliver is likely to be capped at around 2500 sessions per year - depending on the number of providers operating in the areas.

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 How many couples do you expect to receive sessions in each of the trial areas?

The Department is looking for the support sessions to be delivered to around 6000 couples per year in up to three local authority (LA) areas.

This is based on approximate figures of around 2000 births per year in each LA, and assumes session take up of around 50%.

The Department appreciates that the number of sessions delivered in year one will be less than year two.

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 How will the subsidised offer be delivered to couples?

First time parents - mothers and fathers in the final trimester of pregnancy and up to the second birthday of their child - in the trial areas will be made aware of relationship support sessions they can access with an approved relationship support provider.

The type of promotional offer will be agreed between the Department and the local support and promotion services provider appointed.

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 What is the timetable to deliver the sessions?

The Department expects to sign contracts by May 2012.

We would like providers to be able to start delivering no later than July 2012 - subject to negotiation in exceptional circumstances.

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 How much will the contracts be worth?

The concession contract will not carry a specific monetary value. Payment will be dependent on take up of sessions, and level of subsidy.

We anticipate the total value of these sessions may amount to approximately £600,000 during the life of the trial - this will be dependent on take up of sessions and level of subsidy.

The amount paid for the sessions should include any development and training costs in year one.

The total value of the services contract is estimated to be a maximum of £300,000 (including VAT).

It is expected that the majority of the total sum would be to fund the local support services for the trial - rather than any promotional services.

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 How will this trial fit with the Department’s parenting classes trial?

As part of the contract negotiation phase the Department will agree the local authority (LA) areas to ensure delivery is aligned across providers.

This way we can ensure these trials do not duplicate other trial areas, for example with the current Parenting Class Trial, which will be operating in Camden, High Peak and Middlesbrough.

Areas selected should also seek to reflect the differences in areas that would apply nationwide, for example in urban and in more rural areas.

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 Will this subsidised offer be part of a national roll-out after the trial ends?

No decision has been made about this.
The offer being provided for the purposes of the trial is to help stimulate demand and supply for relationship support sessions.
The independent evaluation of the trial will inform the scope for long term sustainability, and roll out without government funding.

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 Where can I get more information?

Further information on the procurement process for this trial can also be found in this section of the website. 

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