Endorsed Program Criteria

Groupwork program development standards require that programs:

1.    Use an explicit model of change

• The theoretical rationale underpinning the intervention must be made explicit.

• The program must be derived from empirical research which clearly demonstrates that it produces meaningful positive changes in people’s lives.

• A clear set of objectives has been articulated for the program

2.    Identify who should facilitate the program

• Program clearly outlines the qualifications, knowledge, life experiences or training that is required by the facilitators.

3.    Identify what participants should attend this program

• Selection criteria for program participation must be consistent with clear identification of the program target group and who should not attend for specific reasons i.e. mental health or experiencing an immediate crisis reasons.

4.    State the program’s length, frequency, intensity and environment

• The group has an adequate duration to meet group members’ needs.

• Program uses a range of interventions that reinforce each other in addressing relevant issues.

• Other related programs complement this program design.

5.    Use appropriate and balanced selection of interventions and exercises

• The program must demonstrate that the proposed intervention methods are appropriate and effective in addressing identified participant needs and allow for maximum participant involvement.

• Primarily based on psychoeducational group interventions are behaviourally based, including cognitive-behavioural, social learning, modelling, graduated practice of new skills, role playing, providing resources and concrete verbal suggestions.

6.    Achieve program integrity through the clear use of sound concepts

• Clear instructions are given to facilitators about how to implement individual activities.

• The program articulates what essential information that is required for each session.

• Program is well documented and presented.

• Minimum and maximum group size has been specified.

• Copyright issues have been appropriately addressed through acknowledgment or permission being sought.

7.    Use on-going monitoring and evaluation as part of the program

• The program design must include a guide to how the program is to be evaluated.

• Provides evidence of regular program review and refinement

8.    Provide evidence of regular program review and refinement

• The Program should be reviewed periodically and adjustments made to the program.

• Version control is used