In the context of health and social care, third sector organisations serve as an efficient

channel of support and programme delivery given their intimate understanding of communities.

Demand for services supporting families impacted by substance misuse is increasing, and

although not all children and young people are adversely affected by familial substance misuse,

the risk of harm and negative impact can be substantial. Yet, there is a scarcity of targeted

evidence-based interventions available in this context, which is concerning not only for

children, young people and families, but the services that support them, and the policy makers

who fund them. This is a societal issue which needs addressing at all levels. Part A of this

portfolio presents an empirical study of a pilot randomised controlled trial designed to test the

feasibility and acceptability of a specific intervention aimed at supporting children and young

people impacted by parental substance misuse. Furthermore, this study aimed to determine the

signal of efficacy of the intervention in improving the wellbeing, coping and resilience.

Broadly, the findings suggest the intervention is feasible and acceptable, and that a full trial is

justified. Findings indicate the potential of the intervention to support overall psychological

wellbeing and coping amongst children and young people impacted. Part B presents a

qualitative empirical paper which explores the experience of the frontline staff responsible for

implementing and evaluating the aforementioned intervention in the context of their roles, to

better understand what would be helpful to improve this process in the future. Findings

highlighted a range of barriers and facilitators, indicating the importance of involving staff

throughout the process. We conclude that many contextual factors influence their experience,

on a broad macro and individual micro level: clear contextual framing, adequate training, co-

worker support and adaptation guidelines are amongst key factors suggested to increase

successful implementation of evidence-based practice in the future. The children and young

people remained their priority throughout.