FDS Support Groups Evaluation 2014.
18
This evaluation shows that the FDS Support Groups meet the needs of participants
and help them to cope much more effectively with the challenges of problematic drug
use in their family.
The average CSQ-8 survey ratings were comparatively very high at 30.31. Although
most client satisfaction studies receive positive results, the FDS Support Group
average rating is higher than a range of other comparable types of support programs
and interventions found in the literature
9
, where the overall mean was approximately
24
10
. Although the ratings were also close to those of the FDS Stepping Stones
Program, which averaged 30.24.
11
The high scores indicate that the groups are working very well for participants,
providing the intended services and supports at a level where participants are mostly
highly satisfied. Also, given also a good mix of newer and regular participants
amongst survey respondents, it is apparent that the groups are meeting the needs of
people who are at different stages in relation to a family member’s drug use. In
addition, the fact that nearly all respondents would recommend the group to a friend
or attend the groups again, is indicative of the high value placed on attending the
groups. Although it should be noted that people who might have been dissatisfied
with the support group experience may not have completed the survey, or are likely to
have stopped attending.
The qualitative feedback showed that the support groups have a powerful
psychosocial impact, and that people find they help to improve well being and coping,
and being literally a ‘life saver’ in some instances. Participants particularly valued
the destigmatising of their experience, the reduction of isolation, coming to
understand drug use – especially realising that it was ‘not their fault’, and the
friendship, support and camaraderie of the groups. The compassion and knowledge of
the group leaders was also highly valued, with some leaders singled out as offering an
extraordinary level of support to families.
It is unusual in an evaluation to find no complaints or suggestions for change in
regard to a program or service. However, the feedback concerning FDS Support
Groups is without negatives or even suggested changes of format. Whilst
9
Royse, D, Thyer, B & Padgett, D (2010). Program evaluation: An introduction (5
th
Ed.).
Belmont, CA: Wadsworth
10
Royse, D, Thyer, B & Padgett, D (2010). Program evaluation: An introduction (5
th
Ed.).
Belmont, CA: Wadsworth
11
Interim results from an evaluation in progress.
