Foundations for attachment for children in care: a feasibility and acceptability study of a group-based caregiver programme

Background: Children in care are socially vulnerable due to their adverse early experiences. Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy (DDP) is a promising intervention for these children, yet empirical support is limited. This study evaluates the feasibility and acceptability of the ‘Foundations for Attachment’, a DDP-informed group intervention for foster carers. Methods: This mixed methods study did not use a control group. Recruitment, retention and completion rates of outcomes measures, as well as participant feedback, were used to evaluate feasibility and acceptability. Standardised outcome measures were completed at baseline, post-intervention, and one-month follow-up. Descriptive statistics and the Reliable Change Index were used to evaluate the suitability of the measures. Brief content analysis was used to evaluate open-ended qualitative questions related to the acceptability of the intervention. Results: There was substantial attrition from the opt-in to the completion of the baseline measures, with further attrition at the post-intervention and follow-up time points. Content analysis of participant feedback suggested the intervention was acceptable, although outcome measures were identified as time-consuming. The outcome measures were ineffective in capturing individual-level change. Conclusions: This feasibility study highlights key challenges in recruitment and retention that must be addressed in future trials. The outcome measures used in this study warrant reconsideration in a future trial. Intervention research of this kind is important as targeted interventions for this group are needed. Thesis is embargoed until 31st December 2028.