Global Innovations in Measurement and Evaluation

We researched the latest developments in theory and practice in measurement and evaluation. And we found that new thinking, techniques, and technology are influencing and improving practice. This report highlights 8 developments that we think have the greatest potential to improve evaluation and programme design, and the careful collection and use of data. In it, we seek to inform and inspire—to celebrate what is possible, and encourage wider application of these ideas

Childcare and early years survey 2007: parents’ use, views and experiences

The evidence suggests overall that the Ten Year Childcare Strategy has not had as much impact as intended, particularly in relation to the most disadvantaged children. Nevertheless, policy plans such as the extension of the free entitlement and the roll out of the Extended Schools programme are likely to contribute to a higher take-up of childcare by families. This report only provides an initial update on parents’ views and experiences of childcare and early years provision. The survey includes a wealth of data and there is a great deal more to explore through secondary analysis as well as qualitative research to better understand the complexity of the decisions parents face

Estimating the prevalence of forced marriage in England

A forced marriage (FM) has been defined in the UK as "a marriage conducted without the valid consent of both parties, wheree duress is a factor" (Home Office, 2000, p.4). The Court of Appeal clarified that duress is: "whether the mind of the applicant has been overborne, howsoever that was caused" (Magill and Lee, 2008, p.8). FM is therefore a marriage in which one or both spouses do not (or, in the case of some vulnerable adults, cannot) consent to the marriage and duress is involved. Duress can include physical, psychological, financial, sexual and emotional pressure. FM is therefore distinct from arranged marriage, as in an arranged marriage the family will take the lead in arranging the match but the couples have a choice as to whether to proceed