Barnardos Waterford Wellbeing Project

Abstract

This report presents findings from a small-scale evaluation of the Barnardos West Waterford Wellbeing Project, outlining the study background, programme overview, and research aims. The study examined wellbeing outcomes for participating children, young people, and parents, and assessed the impact of core programme components. Children demonstrated high wellbeing at baseline, which was maintained following participation, with improvements noted in social engagement, school relationships, attention, and energy levels. In contrast, parents and adults initially showed lower wellbeing, with many in the low to average range and none reporting high wellbeing at baseline. Post-intervention results indicated improvements, including increased numbers reporting average and high wellbeing, reflecting enhanced psychological functioning. These changes were statistically significant. Although limited by small sample size, findings align with national evaluations. In the context of rising mental health challenges, particularly post-COVID-19, the results highlight the potential value of brief, community-based wellbeing interventions.