FDAC achieved significantly better outcomes than normal proceedings in an independent evaluation led by Lancaster University:
- More parents overcame their problems by the end of proceedings.
- 40% of FDAC mothers were no longer misusing substances, compared to 25% of the comparison mothers.
- 25% of FDAC fathers were no longer misusing substances, compared to 5% of the comparison fathers.
- More children remained with or returned to their parents at the end of proceedings. 35% of FDAC mothers stopped misusing and were reunited with their children, compared to 19% of the comparison mothers.
- When families were followed up a year or more after proceedings ended further neglect or abuse of children occurred in 25% of FDAC families compared with 56% of comparison families.
- The researchers said "Parents were overwhelmingly positive about the FDAC team for motivating and engaging them, listening to them and not ‘judging’ them, being honest with them, being both ’strict’ and ‘kind’, providing practical and emotional support, and coordinating their individual plans".