Multidimensional Treatment Foster Care in England
An evidence-based programme to help children and young people improve their life outcomes
A National Strategy, Delivered Locally
“[The] reforms will aim to improve [...] the use of more evidence-based interventions for the most challenging children and those with complex needs, who too often end up in extremely costly provision which does not meet their needs.”
Care Matters: Time for Change
A Brief Introduction for Local Authorities and Service Commissioners
Many children and young people in care in England have complex needs and challenging behaviours. Securing appropriate, locally based placements for this vulnerable group can be difficult. However, an exciting new option is now available.
MTFCE is an evidence-based programme that is part of the government's strategy to improve outcomes for looked after children and young people. It offers a cost-effective alternative to residential care and treatment to help the youngsters turn their lives around. First piloted in 2002 for the 10-16 age group, MTFCE is steadily extending its reach. Today there are programmes for the 3-6 and 7-11 age groups, established teams are moving out of the pilot scheme into accreditation and new teams are forming.
The development of MTFCE nationwide is co-ordinated by the National Implementation Team. It has two key roles. First to support Local Authority teams in the DCSF programme. Second to provide consultation to agencies wishing to set up MTFC-A in their local area. Consultation services include training and advice, and are offered under the National Team's Network Partnership Agreement with the programme originators, Oregon Social Learning Centre (OSLC).
Updates
15 – 17 April 2009
MTFC Europe Conference
This conference, held in Amsterdam, was well attended by several teams from England, as well as teams from the USA, the Netherlands, Sweden, Denmark, Ireland and New Zealand.
20 February 2009
Investing in Children: Moving to What Works
This conference, jointly organised by the Department of Children, Schools and Families and the Youth Justice Board, aimed to show improved outcomes for vulnerable children through better working between local agencies and the use of evidence based practices. The conference was well attended with delegates including high-level decision makers such as Baroness Delyth Morgan Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Children, Young People and Families. The National Team's Annual Report on MTFC was highlighted by Baroness Morgan. Several workshops and discussions around the development and implementation of MTFC and other evidence based programmes were held.
November 2008
Calculating and Comparing the Costs of Multidimensional Treatment Foster Care, England (MTFCE)
This report, provided by Loughborough University for the DCSF, is now available in our Library section »
13 October 2008
MTFC-P programme on course
First placements for this new programme have been made. Read more about the placements »
23 May 2008
MTFC-C pilot announced
The DCSF has announced a £3.8m pilot project to set up MTFC-Children programmes. Eight local authorities across England have been selected to take part in this project. Read the DCSF press notice »
21 July 2007
Network Partnership Agreement with OSLC
The National Implementation Team have now formally signed an agreement to become the UK Network Partner with OSLC. Read more about the Network Partnership »