New evaluation highlights positive impact of Space to Grow on children’s emotional wellbeing
A new independent evaluation has highlighted the positive impact of Space to Grow, an early emotional wellbeing programme supporting children aged 8–13 across the UK.
Delivered in Northern Ireland by MACS, the programme helps children build confidence, understand their emotions and develop coping strategies through one-to-one sessions, group activities and support in schools and communities.
Over the past year, MACS supported 949 children through Space to Grow.
The evaluation, conducted by Dartington Service Design Lab, found that children who received support described feeling happier, more confident and better able to manage difficult emotions.
Children also reported feeling more connected to their peers and trusted adults, while outcome measures showed significant improvements in progress towards personal goals and reductions in emotional and behavioural difficulties.
One child who took part shared:
“I started getting more talkative. I started talking to people in my new school and it’s just been great. It makes me feel like a whole different person.”
The findings highlight the importance of trusted relationships, with children particularly valuing practitioners who listened, understood their needs and allowed them to engage at their own pace.
The evaluation also emphasised the value of creative activities, flexible approaches and providing support in familiar settings, helping children access support before difficulties escalate.
Space to Grow is delivered across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland through a partnership between MACS, The Children’s Society and Children First, with funding from BBC Children in Need, The Health Foundation and Impact on Urban Health.
The findings reinforce the importance of accessible early emotional wellbeing support and continued investment in services that help children feel heard, supported and confident.