Protection of children in Bogotá, Colombia: A feasibility study of a community-led child protection approach

Background Globally, about one billion children experience violence, affecting individuals, families, communities, and society. In Colombia, ongoing conflict and drug-related armed violence drive high violence rates. Objectives The objective of the study was to assess the feasibility of: (i) a community-led approach to protect children ( Seeds ) and, (ii) its evaluation procedures, in order to inform refinements to the intervention manual and evaluation design and methods prior to a large-scale effectiveness evaluation. Participants Quantitative data were gathered from random samples of adolescents (n=25) and adults (n=32), and a purposive sample of adults (n=14). Qualitative data were gathered from purposive samples of adolescents (n=18) and adults (n=17). Methods The study, employing a multiple-baseline longitudinal mixed-methods design, was conducted in two neighborhoods in Bogotá, Colombia. Linear regression assessed sensitivity to change of pre-defined outcomes, completed by thematic analysis of qualitative data. Findings Overall, the Seeds approach was received positively by participants. However, challenges related to time constraints and adult participation were identified, indicating the need for adjustments to the intervention manual before the next evaluation. Additional practical revisions, including simplifying the tools and improving the flow between intervention phases, were also noted and will be incorporated. Using the current study design and instruments, changes were detected in several, but not all, outcomes. The findings further suggested several modifications to strengthen future evaluations of pre-defined Seeds outcomes, including adding a control group, measuring community ownership, and developing instruments to capture context-specific risks and observable changes resulting from community action plans. Conclusion Participants responded positively to Seeds , despite challenges from time constraints and limited adult participation. The study informed intervention manual updates and identified recommendations to refine design and methods for a future adequately powered Seeds evaluation.