This implementation framework aims to acknowledge the complexities facing local authorities while offering a structure for integrating evidence into local systems that support children and families. The framework is structured around different factors:

• Recommendation 1: Behaviours that drive implementation
• Recommendation 2: Contextual factors that influence implementation
• Recommendation 3: Using a structured but flexible implementation Process.

Each part of this framework works together. This structure helps local areas to implement evidence-based approaches in services for children and families effectively. The behaviours and contextual factors underpin effective implementation and should infuse day-to-day work. The process helps navigate change and organise implementation into manageable phases: Explore, Prepare, Deliver, and Sustain.

The framework is based on an extensive review of evidence on implementation originally completed by the Education Endowment Foundation for use in schools. This has been supplemented by an umbrella review and evidence synthesis of barriers and facilitators to implementing children’s services to further contextualise this document.

Developed in collaboration by the City of York Council and Foundations, with support by a Research Fellow funded by the National Institute of Health and Social Care Research and adapted from A School’s Guide to Implementation, originally developed by the Education Endowment Foundation (EFF).

This is currently a beta version of the framework, which has been developed in the first instance for testing in collaborating local areas. A final version with updated references will be available in due course.