Looking to the future – concluding thoughts

Westlake, David ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7507-3413, Sanders, Michael and Hirneis, Vanessa 2025. Looking to the future – concluding thoughts. Sanders, Michael, Westlake, David and Hirneis, Vanessa, eds. Experimental Methods and Children's Social Care: The Contribution of Randomised Controlled Trials, Sociology, Social Policy and Education 2025, Cheltenham: Edward Elgar Publishing, pp. 200-205. (10.4337/9781035327157.00024)

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Abstract

This concluding chapter reflects on the future of experimental methods and RCTs in children's social care, acknowledging both recent progress and ongoing challenges. It argues for a sustainable pipeline of interventions ready for rigorous testing, the development of more meaningful outcome measures, and a culture of celebrating results – regardless of whether they indicate success or failure of the interventions being tested. By exploring issues such as the under-dissemination of null findings, the chapter highlights the importance of transparency and honest reporting to ensure that lessons are learned and interventions evolve. It emphasises that while not all interventions will suit RCTs, the aim is to embed evidence-based thinking more deeply into practice and policymaking. The chapter ultimately suggests that persistence, adaptability, and a commitment to sharing all findings widely are key to maintaining momentum and ensuring RCTs continue to guide effective and equitable services for children and families.

Item Type:	Book Section
Date Type:	Publication
Status:	Published
Schools:	Schools > Social Sciences (Includes Criminology and Education) Research Institutes & Centres > Children’s Social Care Research and Development Centre (CASCADE)
Publisher:	Edward Elgar Publishing
ISBN:	9781035327140
Last Modified:	15 Dec 2025 15:24
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/183240

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