Evaluation

An independent evaluation of LLLGB Peer Counsellor Programmes (the first such evaluation of it's kind) took place in 2007. To view the PDF file please click here (3Mb).
The programme is easily evaluated locally, in several different ways. All peer counsellors receive log books to record details of the help they have given. These will enable you to monitor the help given and maintain quality control. Evaluating the project may be a good subject for local audit.
Breastfeeding figures should be collected to monitor any possible changes and influences of the programme.
The first change we would expect to see in an area where a PCP is running is a greater awareness of breastfeeding. Because health professionals in the primary health care team will be involved as well as local women, information about the programme and breastfeeding will spread throughout the area. We would then expect to see an increase in duration of breastfeeding as the peer counsellors begin to support those women who choose to breastfeed. Many areas have found that this is followed by an increase in the initiation rates.
The locally conducted North Nottingham Evaluation Project showed that in the programme area, mothers were more than twice as likely to breastfeed and continued to breastfeed for longer than four months. Recent locally gathered figures and information from our programmes in Sheffield, Telford, Derby and St Helens have shown a significant increase in incidence and duration of breastfeeding. These figures are backed up by the results of the independent evaluation (see above).