A qualitative evaluation of the effectiveness of health visiting practice

The evaluation of health visiting interventions is a contentious issue and there is a need to develop methods of evaluation which move beyond organizationally-led targets. This article presents the findings of a study which explored the effectiveness of health visiting interventions from the perspectives of parents and health visitors. A qualitative approach was used which allowed the views of parents and health visitors to be examined within the context of their understanding of the parenting role. It is argued that this approach contributes to the evidence base of health visiting. Findings support the value of the health visitor-client relationship, formed mainly through home visiting, as the cornerstone of successful interventions. Parents in this study welcomed the health visitor's support in helping them to develop their parenting skills against a background of social change. At a time when the roles of health visitors are being renegotiated, the findings demonstrate the relevance of health visiting in contemporary society.