Implementation evaluation of InCtrl

Key finding

InCtrl was well-received by the young people attending and practitioners facilitating the groups. Practitioners could tailor session content to suit different ages, abilities and learning styles. Children’s relationships with the practitioners were very positive.

Other findings

Outcomes for children and their caregivers

Children, parents and practitioners provided evidence of increased digital resilience, emotional resilience, and wellbeing for children who completed the pilot service.

Engaging caregivers

Involvement of parents and carers within InCtrl is currently variable, so finding ways to increase the number of caregivers receiving advice and guidance will strengthen the support provided to children.

Working with primary school aged children

The pilot demonstrated a clear rationale for continuing to work with primary school aged children. Ages of children referred during the pilot ranged from 7 to 16 years, which was a wider age range than the target age group, but included children who found the materials accessible and would benefit from the service.

Reasons for referrals

Boys who were referred to the service were more likely to be involved in gaming, while people referring girls were more concerned about their use of social media. Other reoccurring reasons for referrals include mental health, previous safeguarding incidents, bullying and professionals having concerns about a child’s online behaviour.