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Dr Vashti Berry

Senior Research Fellow

2394

722394

South Cloisters 2.07

South Cloisters, University of Exeter, St Luke's Campus, Heavitree Road, Exeter, EX1 2LU, UK

Overview

I am a Senior Research Fellow for the NIHR South West Peninsula Applied Research Collaboration (PenARC) and Director of the Children and Young People's Mental Health Research Collaboration (ChYMe) at Exeter. My focus is children’s social, emotional and behavioural development in the context of challenging family contexts such as domestic violence and abuse or reduced parenting capacity. I design and lead studies that answer pressing questions for commissioners, clinicians and practitioners working for and with children and families, often seeking a solution to the most effective way to prevent or intervene early in difficulties with their health and development.

Qualifications

BA (Hons) Cum Laude Distinction
MSc (Psychology) Cum Laude Distinction
PhD (Social and Policy Sciences)

Research group links

Health services research

Research

Research interests

I am interested in how parents and families can be supported to enable and promote children’s (mental) health and development, particularly in the context of challenging contexts like domestic violence and abuse. I have led and managed several trials of early intervention and prevention activity aimed at reducing children’s difficulties or promoting their socio-emotional development. I am interested in the connections between different contexts in children’s life, for example how communities and families interact, and I am interested in how we adpat and re-design intervention and support for new contexts (e.g. transporting between countries or settings). My work is focused around partnerships with programme developers, service providers, commissioners, parents and families to design, develop and test innovative ways of supporting children and young people.

Research projects

E-SEE Trial: Enhancing social-emotional health and well-being in the very early years: a community-based RCT (and economic) evaluation of the Incredible Years infant and toddler (0-2) parenting programmes. http://e-see-trial.org/
Family Vision: Feasibility testing a novel life coaching intervention for parents parenting alone following domestic abuse. http://clahrc-peninsula.nihr.ac.uk/research/family-vision
FReDA: Family Recovery after Domestic Abuse. A feasibility trial and nested process evaluation of a group-based psychoeducational intervention for children exposed to domestic violence and abuse https://fundingawards.nihr.ac.uk/award/NIHR127793
STOP DRV-GBV: A systematic review of School-based interventions TO Prevent dating and relationship and gender-based violence. The review will focus on understanding characteristics, mechanisms, implementation and effectiveness. With Prof G.J. Melendez-Torres (PI).
Feasibility and outcome evaluation of 'Becoming a Man', a Youth Endowment Fund-funded study evaluating the adaptation and implementation of the US programme (https://www.youth-guidance.org/bam/) by the Mental Health Foundation in the UK.
Feasibility evaluation of a Transition Hub for Looked After Children who are experiencing movement into care or transition/s while in care, delivered by Achieving for Children and Barnet Council
Paediatric Admissions: A PenARC resourced project in partnership with the AHSN and Trusts across the South West to undertake natural experiments of interventions designed to reduce paediatric admissions and improve care. We are now focusing on the pattern and prevalence of paediatric mental health admissions. http://clahrc-peninsula.nihr.ac.uk/research/paediatric-acute-care-project
TRACES: Adapting parenting programme support for early childhood trauma and adversity. With South African partners at University of Cape Town and Institute for Security Studies. https://gtr.ukri.org/projects?ref=MC_PC_MR%2FR019991%2F1
Parent Engagement in Schools: A review and survey with the Education Endowment Foundation informing Guidance for Schools. https://educationendowmentfoundation.org.uk/tools/guidance-reports/working-with-parents-to-support-childrens-learning/
MBCT for young people and their parents: A PenARC resourced project of service development and an evaluation protocol of a mindfulness intervention for young people in CAMHS at risk of depressive relapse. http://clahrc-peninsula.nihr.ac.uk/research/mbct-yp-mindfulness-based-cognitive-therapy-to-prevent-relapse-in-young-people and more recently (2020-) a NIHR Programme Development Grant (ATTEND) preparing the intervention for full trial, including a focus on training and recruitment.
Healthy Parent Carers: Feasibility testing of a health promotion programme for parents of disabled children. http://sites.exeter.ac.uk/healthyparentcarers/
Measures of maternal sensitivity and responsiveness for routine Children's Services: the MIRI and Care-Index.
Dartington Social Research Unit Trials: Supporting the design and development of the Big Lottery Realising Ambition trials - Chance UK mentoring programme, Malachi parenting programme. - as well as the KiVa anti-bullying intervention RCT.
DeCoDer (complete): A pilot RCT of a primary care-based complex intervention for individuals with depression and debt. http://clahrc-peninsula.nihr.ac.uk/research/decoder

Publications

Key publications | Publications by category | Publications by year

Key publications

Axford N, Berry V, Lloyd J, Hobbs T, Wyatt K (2020). Promoting Learning from Null or Negative Results in Prevention Science Trials. Prev Sci Abstract. Author URL. Full text.

Berry V, Wilkinson K, Farr N, Stimson A (2019). Assessing the Feasibility of a Parent Life Coaching Intervention to Support Parents and Children Who Have Experienced Domestic Violence and Abuse. Journal of Family Violence, 34(6), 493-506. Abstract. Full text.

Bywater T, Berry V, Blower SL, Cohen J, Gridley N, Kiernan K, Mandefield L, Mason-Jones A, McGilloway S, McKendrick K, et al (2018). Enhancing Social-Emotional Health and Wellbeing in the Early Years (E-SEE): a study protocol of a community-based randomised controlled trial with process and economic evaluations of the incredible years infant and toddler parenting programmes, delivered in a proportionate universal model. BMJ Open, 8(12).

INTRODUCTION: Behavioural and mental disorders have become a public health crisis and by 2020 may surpass physical illness as a major cause of disability. Early prevention is key. Two Incredible Years (IY) parent programmes that aim to enhance child well-being and development, IY Infant and IY Toddler, will be delivered and evaluated in a proportionate universal intervention model called Enhancing Social-Emotional Health and Wellbeing in the Early Years (E-SEE) Steps. The main research question is: Does E-SEE Steps enhance child social emotional well-being at 20 months when compared with services as usual? METHODS AND ANALYSIS: E-SEE Steps will be delivered in community settings by Early Years Children's Services and/or Public Health staff across local authorities. Parents of children aged 8 weeks or less, identified by health visitors, children's centre staff or self-referral, are eligible for participation in the trial. The randomisation allocation ratio is 5:1 (intervention to control). All intervention parents will receive an Incredible Years Infant book (universal level), and may be offered the Infant and/or Toddler group-based programme/s-based on parent depression scores on the Patient Health Questionnaire or child social emotional well-being scores on the Ages and Stages Questionnaire: Social Emotional, Second Edition (ASQ:SE-2). Control group parents will receive services as usual. A process and economic evaluation are included. The primary outcome for the study is social emotional well-being, assessed at 20 months, using the ASQ:SE-2. Intention-to-treat and per protocol analyses will be conducted. Clustering and hierarchical effects will be accounted for using linear mixed models. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: Ethical approvals have been obtained from the University of York Education Ethics Committee (ref: FC15/03, 10 August 2015) and UK NHS REC 5 (ref: 15/WA/0178, 22 May 2015. The current protocol is Version 9, 26 February 2018. The sponsor of the trial is the University of York. Dissemination of findings will be via peer-reviewed journals, conference presentations and public events. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: ISRCTN11079129; Pre-results.

Abstract. Author URL. Full text.

Axford N, Berry V (2018). Perfect Bedfellows: Why Early Intervention can Play a Critical Role in Protecting Children - a Response to Featherstone et al. (2014) - a Marriage Made in Hell: Child Protection Meets Early Intervention'. British Journal of Social Work, 48(1), 254-273. Abstract. Full text.

Morpeth L, Blower S, Tobin K, Taylor RS, Bywater T, Tudor Edwards R, Axford N, Lehtonen M, Jones C, Berry VL, et al (2017). The effectiveness of the Incredible Years pre-school parenting programme in the United Kingdom: a pragmatic randomised controlled trial. Child Care in Practice Full text.

Berry V, Axford N, Blower S, Taylor RS, Edwards RT, Tobin K, Jones C, Bywater T (2015). The Effectiveness and Micro-costing Analysis of a Universal, School-Based, Social–Emotional Learning Programme in the UK: a Cluster-Randomised Controlled Trial. School Mental Health, 8(2), 238-256. Full text.

Publications by category

Books

Bullock R, Axford N, Little M, Berry V (2005). Forty years of research, policy and practice in children's services a festschrift for Roger Bullock., Wiley. Abstract.

Journal articles

Ford TJ, Wilkinson K, Berry V, Fox J (In Press). Could Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy prevent a lifelong recurrent course of depression or anxiety by addressing key mechanisms of vulnerability in adolescents at highest risk?. British Journal of Psychiatry Full text.

Axford N, Berry V, Lloyd J, Hobbs T, Wyatt K (2020). Promoting Learning from Null or Negative Results in Prevention Science Trials. Prev Sci Abstract. Author URL. Full text.

Axford N, Bjornstad G, Matthews J, Whybra L, Berry V, Ukoumunne O, Hobbs T, Wrigley Z, Brook L, Taylor R, et al (2020). The effectiveness of a community-based mentoring program for children aged 5-11 years: results from a randomized controlled trial. Prevention Science Full text.

Axford N, Bjornstad G, Matthews J, Heilmann S, Raja A, Ukoumunne OC, Berry V, Wilkinson T, Timmons L, Hobbs T, et al (2020). The effectiveness of a therapeutic parenting program for children aged 6–11 years with behavioral or emotional difficulties: Results from a randomized controlled trial. Children and Youth Services Review, 117, 105245-105245. Full text.

Axford N, Bjornstad G, Clarkson S, Ukoumunne O, Wrigley Z, Matthews J, Berry V, Hutchings J (2020). The effectiveness of the KiVa bullying prevention program in Wales, UK: results from a pragmatic cluster randomized controlled trial. Prevention Science Full text.

Leijten P, Gardner F, Melendez-Torres GJ, Weeland J, Hutchings J, Landau S, McGilloway S, Overbeek G, van Aar J, Menting A, et al (2019). Co-occurring change in children's conduct problems and maternal depression: Latent class individual participant data meta-analysis of the Incredible Years parenting program. Dev Psychopathol, 31(5), 1851-1862. Abstract. Author URL. Full text.

Gardner F, Leijten P, Harris V, Mann J, Hutchings J, Beecham J, Berry V, McGilloway S, Gaspar M, Orobio de Castro B, et al (2019). Equity effects of parenting interventions for child conduct problems: a pan-European individual participant data meta-analysis. Lancet Psychiatry, 6, 518-527. Full text.

Gardner F, Leijten P, Harris V, Mann J, Hutchings J, Beecham J, Bonin E-M, Berry V, McGilloway S, Gaspar M, et al (2019). Equity effects of parenting interventions for child conduct problems: a pan-European individual participant data meta-analysis. Lancet Psychiatry, 6(6), 518-527.

BACKGROUND: Childhood conduct problems are a costly public health problem and are five times more common in socially disadvantaged groups than they are in advantaged groups. Untreated, conduct problems have a poor prognosis, with increasing gaps between socioeconomic groups, and high rates of subsequent criminality. Incredible Years is a high quality parenting programme for reducing conduct problems and is widely disseminated in Europe. Many trials have shown Incredible Years to be effective but the potential effects of parenting interventions on social inequality are unknown. Some behavioural interventions (eg, smoking cessation programmes), although beneficial overall, can widen inequality gaps. Because single trials and aggregate-level meta-analyses are ill equipped for examining differential intervention (moderator) effects, we pooled individual-level trial data to assess the effects of Incredible Years on social equity. METHODS: We did a systematic review and individual participant data meta-analysis by searching CINAHL, Embase, Global Health, Medline, and PsycINFO, for studies published from inception to March 15, 2019. We also searched the Incredible Years website library and consulted with experts, including the European Incredible Years mentors' network. We included data from all completed randomised trials of the Incredible Years parenting intervention in Europe that included children aged 1-12 years, including unpublished trials, without restriction on publication year or outcome measures. We included prevention (selective or universal) and treatment or indicated prevention trials (for children diagnosed or above the clinical cutoff for conduct problems). We excluded trials or conditions within trials that were not randomised, included additional non-parenting material (eg, child-focused interventions), or were abbreviated, non-standard versions of the usual Incredible Years intervention of 12-14 weekly sessions. We requested individual participant data from the study authors. The primary outcome was child conduct problems, assessed using the Eyberg Child Behavior Inventory Intensity (ECBI-I) scale. Moderators were analysed using multilevel modelling with multiple imputation. FINDINGS: of 15 European trials of Incredible Years parenting programmes (n=1696 children), individual participant data were unavailable for one trial and one trial did not assess the primary outcome. Children were aged 2-10 years (median 5·1), 492 (30%) of 1651 children were from an ethnic minority and 931 (58%) of 1614 were from low-income families. Families who received the Incredible Years intervention reported an overall reduction in child conduct problems (13·5 points on the ECBI-I scale, 95% CI 10·9-16·1). There were no differential effects by family disadvantage (indicated by poverty, lone parenthood, teenage parenthood, household joblessness, or low education), or ethnic minority status. INTERPRETATION: We found no evidence for differential effects by social disadvantage, suggesting that Incredible Years is unlikely to widen socioeconomic inequalities in conduct problems. Furthermore, the programme might be an important tool for reducing social disparities and improving poor long-term outcomes in disadvantaged families because follow-up studies indicate that benefits persist. Clinicians and commissioners can be reassured that the programme is similarly effective for families from different backgrounds. FUNDING: UK National Institute for Health Research.

Abstract. Author URL. Full text.

Shaw L, Moore D, Nunns M, Thompson Coon J, Ford T, Berry V, Walker E, Heyman I, Dickens C, Bennett S, et al (2019). Experiences of interventions aiming to improve the mental health and well-being of children and young people with a long-term physical condition: a systematic review and meta-ethnography. Child Care Health Dev, 45(6), 832-849.

BACKGROUND: Children and young people with long-term physical health conditions are at increased risk of experiencing mental health and well-being difficulties. However, there is a lack of research that explores the experiences of and attitudes towards interventions aiming to improve their mental health and well-being. This systematic review seeks to address this gap in the literature by exploring what children and young people with long-term conditions, their caregivers, and health practitioners perceive to be important aspects of interventions aiming to improve their mental health and well-being. METHODS: an information specialist searched five academic databases using predefined criteria for qualitative evaluations of interventions aiming to improve the mental health or well-being of children with long-term physical conditions. Reviewers also performed supplementary citation and grey literature searches. Two reviewers independently screened titles, abstracts, and full texts that met the inclusion criteria and conducted data extraction and quality assessment. Meta-ethnography was used to synthesize the findings. RESULTS: Screening identified 60 relevant articles. We identified five overarching constructs through the synthesis: (a) Getting in and Staying In, (b) Therapeutic Foundation, (c) Social Support, (d) a Hopeful Alternative, and (e) Empowerment. The line of argument that links these constructs together indicates that when interventions can provide an environment that allows young people to share their experiences and build empathetic relationships, it can enable participants to access social support and increase feelings of hope and empowerment. CONCLUSION: These findings may provide a framework to inform the development of mental health interventions for this population and evaluate existing interventions that already include some of the components or processes identified by this research. Further research is needed to establish which of the constructs identified by the line of argument are most effective in improving the mental well-being of young people living with long-term conditions.

Abstract. Author URL. Full text.

Bjornstad G, Wilkinson K, Cuffe-Fuller B, Fitzpatrick K, Borek A, Ukoumunne OC, Hawton A, Tarrant M, Berry V, Lloyd J, et al (2019). Healthy Parent Carers peer-led group-based health promotion intervention for parent carers of disabled children: protocol for a feasibility study using a parallel group randomised controlled trial design. Pilot and Feasibility Studies, 5(1).

Abstract
. Background
. Parent carers of disabled children are at increased risk of mental and physical health problems. They often experience challenges to maintaining good health which have implications for their well-being and their ability to care for their children. In response to these needs, researchers and parent carers developed the Healthy Parent Carers (HPC) programme. It is a peer-led, group-based intervention that promotes behaviours associated with health and well-being. The aims of this trial are to assess the acceptability of the HPC programme and the feasibility of its delivery in the community and to assess the feasibility and acceptability of the design of the definitive trial to evaluate the programme’s effectiveness and cost-effectiveness.
.
. Methods
. We will establish six research sites and train facilitators to deliver the manualised intervention. Parent carers of children with special educational needs and disabilities will be individually randomised, stratified by group delivery site, to either take part in a group programme and online resources (intervention) or to receive access to the online resources only (control). Measures of mental health; well-being; health-related quality of life; health behaviours; patient activation; protective factors such as resilience, social connections, and practical support; and use of health care, social care, and wider societal resources will be collected before randomisation (baseline), immediately post-intervention, and 6 months later. Recruitment of participants, adherence to the programme, and the dose received will be assessed. Group sessions will be audio-recorded to evaluate the fidelity of delivery and participant engagement. Participants’ and facilitators’ feedback on the programme content and delivery, their experience, and the acceptability of the outcome measures and trial design will be collected through feedback forms, interviews, and focus groups.
.
. Discussion
. This trial will assess whether the programme delivery and evaluative trial design are feasible, to inform whether to progress to a definitive randomised controlled trial to test the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of the Healthy Parent Carers programme.
.
. Trial registration
. ISRCTN, ISRCTN151144652, registered on 25 October 2018; ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03705221, registered on 15 October 2018.
.

Abstract. Full text.

Racey DN, Fox J, Berry VL, Blockley KV, Longridge RA, Simmons JL, Janssens A, Kuyken W, Ford TJ (2018). Correction to: Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy for Young People and Their Carers: a Mixed-Method Feasibility Study (Mindfulness, (2018), 9, 4, (1063-1075), 10.1007/s12671-017-0842-7). Mindfulness, 9(4). Abstract.

Abstract. Author URL. Full text.

Husk K, Berry VL, Tozer R, Skipworth G, Radmore R, Ball S, Ukoumunne O, Logan S (2018). Interventions for reducing unplanned paediatric admissions: an observational study in one hospital. BMJ Paediatrics Open Full text.

Racey DN, Fox J, Berry VL, Blockley KV, Longridge RA, Simmons JL, Janssens A, Kuyken W, Ford TJ (2018). Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy for Young People and Their Carers: a Mixed-Method Feasibility Study. Mindfulness, 9(4), 1063-1075. Abstract. Full text.

Whybra L, Warner G, Bjornstad GJ, Hobbs T, Brook L, Wrigley Z, Berry V, Ukoumunne O, Matthews J, Taylor R, et al (2018). The effectiveness of Chance UK’s mentoring programme in improving behavioural and emotional outcomes in primary school children with behavioural difficulties: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial. BMC Psychology, 6, 9-9. Full text.

Axford N, Warner G, Hobbs T, Heilmann S, Raja A, Berry V, Ukoumunne O, Matthews J, Eames T, Kallitsoglou A, et al (2018). The effectiveness of the Inspiring Futures parenting programme in improving behavioural and emotional outcomes in primary school children with behavioural or emotional difficulties: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial. BMC Psychology, 6, 3-3. Full text.

Bywater T, Gridley N, Berry VL, Blower S, Tobin K (2018). The parent programme implementation checklist (PPIC): the development and testing of an objective measure of skills and fidelity for the delivery of parent programmes. Child Care in Practice Full text.

Gabbay MB, Ring A, Byng R, Anderson P, Taylor RS, Matthews C, Harris T, Berry V, Byrne P, Carter E, et al (2017). Debt counselling for depression in primary care: an adaptive randomised controlled pilot trial (DeCoDer study). Health Technology Assessment, 21(35).

© Queen’s Printer and Controller of HMSO 2017. Background: Depression and debt are common in the UK. Debt Counselling for Depression in Primary Care: an adaptive randomised controlled pilot trial (DeCoDer) aimed to assess the clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of the addition of a primary care debt counselling advice service to usual care for patients with depression and debt. However, the study was terminated early during the internal pilot trial phase because of recruitment delays. This report describes the rationale, methods and findings of the pilot study, and implications for future research. Objectives: the overarching aim of the internal pilot was to identify and resolve problems, thereby assessing the feasibility of the main trial. The specific objectives were to confirm methods for practice recruitment and the ability to recruit patients via the proposed approaches; to determine the acceptability of the study interventions and outcome measures; to assess contamination; to confirm the randomisation method for main trial and the level of participant attrition; and to check the robustness of data collection systems. Design: an adaptive, parallel, two-group multicentre randomised controlled pilot trial with a nested mixed-methods process and economic evaluation. Both individual- and cluster (general practice)-level were was used in the pilot phase to assign participants to intervention or control groups. Setting: General practices in England and Wales. Participants: Individuals were included who were aged ≥ 18 years, scored ≥ 14 on the Beck Depression Inventory II and self-identified as having debt worries. The main exclusion criteria were being actively suicidal or psychotic and/or severely depressed and unresponsive to treatment; having a severe addiction to alcohol/illicit drugs; being unable/unwilling to give written informed consent; currently participating in other research including follow-up phases; having received Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) debt advice in the past year; and not wanting debt advice via a general practice. Interventions: the participants in the intervention group were given debt advice provided by the CAB and shared biopsychosocial assessment, in addition to treatment as usual (TAU) and two debt advice leaflets. The participants in the control group were given advice leaflets provided by the general practitioner and TAU only. Main outcome measures: (1) Outcomes of the pilot trial–the proportion of eligible patients who consented, the number of participants recruited compared with target, assessment of contamination, and assessment of patient satisfaction with intervention and outcome measures. (2) Participant outcomes–primary–Beck Depression Inventory II; secondary–psychological well-being, health and social care utilisation, service satisfaction, substance misuse, record of priority/non-priority debts, life events and difficulties, and explanatory measures. Outcomes were assessed at baseline (pre-randomisation) and at 4 months post randomisation. Other data sources–qualitative interviews were conducted with participants, clinicians and CAB advisors. Results: of the 238 expressions of interest screened, 61 participants (26%) were recruited and randomised (32 in the intervention group and 29 in the control group). All participants provided baseline outcomes and 52 provided the primary outcome at 4 months’ follow-up (14.7% dropout). Seventeen participants allocated to the intervention saw a CAB advisor. Descriptive statistics are reported for participants with complete outcomes at baseline and 4 months’ follow-up. Our qualitative findings suggest that the relationship between debt and depression is complex, and the impact of each on the other is compounded by other psychological, social and contextual influences. Conclusions: As a result of low recruitment, this trial was terminated at the internal pilot phase and was too small for inferential statistical analysis. We recommend ways to reduce this risk when conducting complex trials among vulnerable populations recruited in community settings. These cover trial design, the design and delivery of interventions, recruitment strategies and support for sites.

Abstract. Full text.

McCarry M, Larkins C, Berry VL, Radford L, Stanley N (2017). The Potential for Co-production in Developing Violence against Women Services in Wales. Social Policy and Society Full text.

Clarkson S, Axford N, Berry V, Edwards RT, Bjornstad G, Wrigley Z, Charles J, Hoare Z, Ukoumunne OC, Matthews J, et al (2016). Effectiveness and micro-costing of the KiVa school-based bullying prevention programme in Wales: study protocol for a pragmatic definitive parallel group cluster randomised controlled trial. BMC Public Health, 16

BACKGROUND: Bullying refers to verbal, physical or psychological aggression repeated over time that is intended to cause harm or distress to the victims who are unable to defend themselves. It is a key public health priority owing to its widespread prevalence in schools and harmful short- and long-term effects on victims' well-being. There is a need to strengthen the evidence base by testing innovative approaches to preventing bullying. KiVa is a school-based bullying prevention programme with universal and indicated elements and an emphasis on changing bystander behaviour. It achieved promising results in a large trial in Finland, and now requires testing in other countries. This paper describes the protocol for a cluster randomised controlled trial (RCT) of KiVa in Wales. METHODS/DESIGN: the study uses a two-arm waitlist control pragmatic definitive parallel group cluster RCT design with an embedded process evaluation and calculation of unit cost. Participating schools will be randomised a using a 1:1 ratio to KiVa plus usual provision (intervention group) or usual provision only (control group). The trial has one primary outcome, child self-reported victimisation from bullying, dichotomised as 'victimised' (bullied at least twice a month in the last couple of months) versus 'not victimised'. Secondary outcomes are: bullying perpetration; aspects of child social and emotional well-being (including emotional problems, conduct, peer relations, prosocial behaviour); and school attendance. Follow-up is at 12 months post-baseline. Implementation fidelity is measured through teacher-completed lesson records and independent school-wide observation. A micro-costing analysis will determine the costs of implementing KiVa, including recurrent and non-recurrent unit costs. Factors related to the scalability of the programme will be examined in interviews with head teachers and focus groups with key stakeholders in the implementation of school-based bullying interventions. DISCUSSION: the results from this trial will provide evidence on whether the KiVa programme is transportable from Finland to Wales in terms of effectiveness and implementation. It will provide information about the costs of delivery and generate insights into factors related to the scalability of the programme. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN23999021 Date 10-6-13.

Abstract. Author URL. Full text.

Edwards RT, Jones C, Berry V, Charles J, Linck P, Bywater T, Hutchings J (2016). Incredible Years parenting programme: Cost-effectiveness and implementation. Journal of Children's Services, 11(1), 54-72. Abstract. Full text.

Rotheray S, Racey D, Rodgers L, Mcgilloway S, Berry V, Ford T (2014). Innovations in Practice: Further evidence on the effectiveness of the strengths and difficulties added value score as an outcome measure for child and adolescent services. Child and Adolescent Mental Health, 19(4), 270-273. Abstract.

Axford N, Lehtonen M, Kaoukji D, Tobin K, Berry V (2012). Engaging parents in parenting programs: Lessons from research and practice. Children and Youth Services Review, 34(10), 2061-2071. Abstract.

Little M, Berry V, Morpeth L, Blower S, Axford N, Taylor R, Bywater T, Lehtonen M, Tobin K (2012). The Impact of Three Evidence-Based Programmes Delivered in Public Systems in Birmingham, UK. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CONFLICT AND VIOLENCE, 6(2), 260-272. Author URL.

Axford N, Jonas M, Berry V, Green V, Morpeth L (2010). Can study tours help promote evidence-based practice in children's services?. European Journal of Social Work, 13(4), 523-543. Abstract.

BERRY V, LITTLE M, AXFORD N, CUSICK GR (2009). An Evaluation of Youth at Risk's Coaching for Communities Programme. The Howard Journal of Criminal Justice, 48(1), 60-75.

Berry VL (2009). Ethical considerations in conducting family violence research with children and families. Research Ethics Review, 5 (3), 91-98.

Axford N, Morpeth L, Little M, Berry V (2008). Linking prevention science and community engagement: a case study of the Ireland Disadvantaged Children and Youth Programme. Journal of Children's Services, 3(2), 40-54. Abstract.

Axford N, Berry V, Little M, Morpeth L (2006). Developing a Common Language in Children's Services through Research‐based Inter‐disciplinary Training. Social Work Education, 25(2), 161-176.

Axford N, Berry V, Little M (2006). Enhancing service evaluability: Lessons from a programme for disaffected young people. Children and Society, 20(4), 287-298. Abstract.

Axford N, Berry V (2005). Exploring the potential of shadow controls in the evaluation of children's services. International Journal of Social Research Methodology: Theory and Practice, 8(5), 389-404. Abstract.

Axford N, Berry V (2005). Measuring Outcomes in the ‘New’ Children's Services. Journal of Integrated Care, 13(4), 12-23.

Chapters

Berry VL, Axford N, Blower S, Kaoujki D, Little M (2014). Prevention of child maltreatment. In Conte JR (Ed) Child Abuse and Neglect Worldwide [3 volumes], ABC-CLIO, 177-204.

Axford N, Berry V, Bullock R, Little M, Madge J, Morpeth L, Mount K (2007). Research-Based Practice Tools to Improve Child Welfare Services in England: Using the Going Home? Practice Tool to Support the Effective Reunification of Families. In (Ed) Research for Action: Cross-National Perspectives on Connecting Knowledge, Policy, and Practice for Children. Abstract.

Conferences

Axford N, Berry V, Lloyd J, Wyatt K, Hobbs T (2018). Embracing ‘failure’ in prevention science: how can we promote a more open and honest response to trial results showing that interventions ‘don’t work’ or cause harm?. European Society for Prevention Research (EUSPR). 23rd - 25th Oct 2018.

Reports

Axford N, Berry V, Lloyd J, Moore D, Rogers M, Hurst A, Blockley K, Durkin H (2019). How can Schools Support Parents’ Engagement in their Children’s Learning? Evidence from Research and Practice. Education Endowment Foundation, London. Full text.

Axford N, Barlow J, Coad J, Schrader-McMillan A, Bjornstad G, Berry VL, Wrigley Z, Goodwin A, Ohlson C, Sonthalia S, et al (2015). Rapid review to update evidence for Healthy Child Programme 0-5. London, Public Health England. Full text.

Berry VL, McCarry M, Radford L, Larkins C, Stanley N (2014). Building Effective Responses: an Independent Review of Violence against Women, Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence Services in Wales. Cardiff, Welsh Government. Full text.

Publications by year

In Press

2020

Axford N, Berry V, Lloyd J, Hobbs T, Wyatt K (2020). Promoting Learning from Null or Negative Results in Prevention Science Trials. Prev Sci Abstract. Author URL. Full text.

McCarry M, Larkins C, Berry VL, Radford L, Stanley N (2017). The Potential for Co-production in Developing Violence against Women Services in Wales. Social Policy and Society Full text.

2016

Abstract. Author URL. Full text.

2015

2014

Berry VL, Axford N, Blower S, Kaoujki D, Little M (2014). Prevention of child maltreatment. In Conte JR (Ed) Child Abuse and Neglect Worldwide [3 volumes], ABC-CLIO, 177-204.

2012

2010

Axford N, Jonas M, Berry V, Green V, Morpeth L (2010). Can study tours help promote evidence-based practice in children's services?. European Journal of Social Work, 13(4), 523-543. Abstract.

2009

BERRY V, LITTLE M, AXFORD N, CUSICK GR (2009). An Evaluation of Youth at Risk's Coaching for Communities Programme. The Howard Journal of Criminal Justice, 48(1), 60-75.

Berry VL (2009). Ethical considerations in conducting family violence research with children and families. Research Ethics Review, 5 (3), 91-98.

2008

2007

2006

Axford N, Berry V, Little M, Morpeth L (2006). Developing a Common Language in Children's Services through Research‐based Inter‐disciplinary Training. Social Work Education, 25(2), 161-176.

Axford N, Berry V, Little M (2006). Enhancing service evaluability: Lessons from a programme for disaffected young people. Children and Society, 20(4), 287-298. Abstract.

2005

Bullock R, Axford N, Little M, Berry V (2005). Forty years of research, policy and practice in children's services a festschrift for Roger Bullock., Wiley. Abstract.

Axford N, Berry V (2005). Measuring Outcomes in the ‘New’ Children's Services. Journal of Integrated Care, 13(4), 12-23.

Refresh publications

External Engagement and Impact

Committee/panel activities

Youth Endowment Fund Expert Panel Member (2020-present)
Early Intervention Foundation advisory panel on Adverse Childhood Experiences (2019-2020)
Education Endowment Fund / Early Intervention Foundation panel on common components of Social-Emotional Learning (2019)
Early Intervention Foundation/ESRC Step-Up study advisory group panel (2015-2016)
Early Intervention Foundation evidence review and moderation panel (2014-2019)
Strategic Clinical Networks for Perinatal and Infant Mental Health, and Urgent Care Committees for South West (2014-2017)

Invited lectures

2018: Invited keynote for Research in Practice’s Leaders’ Forum, Leamington Spa, June 2018, To intervene (early) or not at all: is that the question? #leadersforum18
2016: Invited keynote address for Count me in! Children’s participation conference, Plymouth, 6-7th April: Designing and evaluating parenting support to ‘enable’ children.
2015: British Council Violence against Women and Children in Diverse Contexts, Johannesburg, South Africa, 3-6th March: Policy and practice responses in diverse contexts.
2012: Supporting Parents, Children and Teachers: Research and Practice, Cardiff, Wales, March: Birmingham’s “Brighter Futures” programme – an approach to evidence-based strategy, implementation and research (with Cheryl Hopkins, former director of Children Services, Birmingham City Council).

Teaching

PenARC Making Sense of Evidence: Training in evidence-based practice for health and social care professionals

Health Services Research: Quantitative Research Design

Supervision / Group

Postgraduate researchers

Kate Allen
Alexa Gainsbury
Victoria Wren

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Profile

Dr Vashti Berry

Senior Research Fellow

Overview

Qualifications

Research group links

Research

Research interests

Research projects

Publications

Key publications

Abstract:Promoting Learning from Null or Negative Results in Prevention Science Trials.

Abstract:Assessing the Feasibility of a Parent Life Coaching Intervention to Support Parents and Children Who Have Experienced Domestic Violence and Abuse

Abstract:Enhancing Social-Emotional Health and Wellbeing in the Early Years (E-SEE): a study protocol of a community-based randomised controlled trial with process and economic evaluations of the incredible years infant and toddler parenting programmes, delivered in a proportionate universal model.

Abstract:Perfect Bedfellows: Why Early Intervention can Play a Critical Role in Protecting Children - a Response to Featherstone et al. (2014) - a Marriage Made in Hell: Child Protection Meets Early Intervention'

Publications by category

Books

Abstract:Forty years of research, policy and practice in children's services a festschrift for Roger Bullock

Journal articles

Abstract:Promoting Learning from Null or Negative Results in Prevention Science Trials.

Abstract:Assessing the Feasibility of a Parent Life Coaching Intervention to Support Parents and Children Who Have Experienced Domestic Violence and Abuse

Abstract:Co-occurring change in children's conduct problems and maternal depression: Latent class individual participant data meta-analysis of the Incredible Years parenting program.

Abstract:Equity effects of parenting interventions for child conduct problems: a pan-European individual participant data meta-analysis.

Abstract:Experiences of interventions aiming to improve the mental health and well-being of children and young people with a long-term physical condition: a systematic review and meta-ethnography.

Abstract:Healthy Parent Carers peer-led group-based health promotion intervention for parent carers of disabled children: protocol for a feasibility study using a parallel group randomised controlled trial design

Abstract:Correction to: Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy for Young People and Their Carers: a Mixed-Method Feasibility Study (Mindfulness, (2018), 9, 4, (1063-1075), 10.1007/s12671-017-0842-7)

Abstract:Enhancing Social-Emotional Health and Wellbeing in the Early Years (E-SEE): a study protocol of a community-based randomised controlled trial with process and economic evaluations of the incredible years infant and toddler parenting programmes, delivered in a proportionate universal model.

Abstract:Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy for Young People and Their Carers: a Mixed-Method Feasibility Study

Abstract:Perfect Bedfellows: Why Early Intervention can Play a Critical Role in Protecting Children - a Response to Featherstone et al. (2014) - a Marriage Made in Hell: Child Protection Meets Early Intervention'

Abstract:Debt counselling for depression in primary care: an adaptive randomised controlled pilot trial (DeCoDer study)

Abstract:Effectiveness and micro-costing of the KiVa school-based bullying prevention programme in Wales: study protocol for a pragmatic definitive parallel group cluster randomised controlled trial.

Abstract:Incredible Years parenting programme: Cost-effectiveness and implementation

Abstract:Innovations in Practice: Further evidence on the effectiveness of the strengths and difficulties added value score as an outcome measure for child and adolescent services

Abstract:Engaging parents in parenting programs: Lessons from research and practice

Abstract:Can study tours help promote evidence-based practice in children's services?

Abstract:Linking prevention science and community engagement: a case study of the Ireland Disadvantaged Children and Youth Programme

Abstract:Enhancing service evaluability: Lessons from a programme for disaffected young people

Abstract:Exploring the potential of shadow controls in the evaluation of children's services

Chapters

Abstract:Research-Based Practice Tools to Improve Child Welfare Services in England: Using the Going Home? Practice Tool to Support the Effective Reunification of Families

Conferences

Reports

Publications by year

In Press

2020

Abstract:Promoting Learning from Null or Negative Results in Prevention Science Trials.

2019

Abstract:Assessing the Feasibility of a Parent Life Coaching Intervention to Support Parents and Children Who Have Experienced Domestic Violence and Abuse

Abstract:Co-occurring change in children's conduct problems and maternal depression: Latent class individual participant data meta-analysis of the Incredible Years parenting program.

Abstract:Equity effects of parenting interventions for child conduct problems: a pan-European individual participant data meta-analysis.

Abstract:Experiences of interventions aiming to improve the mental health and well-being of children and young people with a long-term physical condition: a systematic review and meta-ethnography.

Abstract:Healthy Parent Carers peer-led group-based health promotion intervention for parent carers of disabled children: protocol for a feasibility study using a parallel group randomised controlled trial design

2018

Abstract:Correction to: Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy for Young People and Their Carers: a Mixed-Method Feasibility Study (Mindfulness, (2018), 9, 4, (1063-1075), 10.1007/s12671-017-0842-7)

Abstract:Enhancing Social-Emotional Health and Wellbeing in the Early Years (E-SEE): a study protocol of a community-based randomised controlled trial with process and economic evaluations of the incredible years infant and toddler parenting programmes, delivered in a proportionate universal model.

Abstract:Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy for Young People and Their Carers: a Mixed-Method Feasibility Study

Abstract:Perfect Bedfellows: Why Early Intervention can Play a Critical Role in Protecting Children - a Response to Featherstone et al. (2014) - a Marriage Made in Hell: Child Protection Meets Early Intervention'

2017

Abstract:Debt counselling for depression in primary care: an adaptive randomised controlled pilot trial (DeCoDer study)

2016

Abstract:Effectiveness and micro-costing of the KiVa school-based bullying prevention programme in Wales: study protocol for a pragmatic definitive parallel group cluster randomised controlled trial.

Abstract:Incredible Years parenting programme: Cost-effectiveness and implementation

2015

2014

Abstract:Innovations in Practice: Further evidence on the effectiveness of the strengths and difficulties added value score as an outcome measure for child and adolescent services

2012

Abstract:Engaging parents in parenting programs: Lessons from research and practice

2010

Abstract:Can study tours help promote evidence-based practice in children's services?

2009

2008

Abstract:Linking prevention science and community engagement: a case study of the Ireland Disadvantaged Children and Youth Programme

2007

Abstract:Research-Based Practice Tools to Improve Child Welfare Services in England: Using the Going Home? Practice Tool to Support the Effective Reunification of Families

2006

Abstract:Enhancing service evaluability: Lessons from a programme for disaffected young people

2005

Abstract:Exploring the potential of shadow controls in the evaluation of children's services

Abstract:Forty years of research, policy and practice in children's services a festschrift for Roger Bullock

External Engagement and Impact

Abstract:
Promoting Learning from Null or Negative Results in Prevention Science Trials.

Abstract:
Assessing the Feasibility of a Parent Life Coaching Intervention to Support Parents and Children Who Have Experienced Domestic Violence and Abuse

Abstract:
Perfect Bedfellows: Why Early Intervention can Play a Critical Role in Protecting Children - a Response to Featherstone et al. (2014) - a Marriage Made in Hell: Child Protection Meets Early Intervention'

Abstract:
Forty years of research, policy and practice in children's services a festschrift for Roger Bullock

Abstract:
Promoting Learning from Null or Negative Results in Prevention Science Trials.

Abstract:
Assessing the Feasibility of a Parent Life Coaching Intervention to Support Parents and Children Who Have Experienced Domestic Violence and Abuse

Abstract:
Co-occurring change in children's conduct problems and maternal depression: Latent class individual participant data meta-analysis of the Incredible Years parenting program.

Abstract:
Equity effects of parenting interventions for child conduct problems: a pan-European individual participant data meta-analysis.

Abstract:
Experiences of interventions aiming to improve the mental health and well-being of children and young people with a long-term physical condition: a systematic review and meta-ethnography.

Abstract:
Healthy Parent Carers peer-led group-based health promotion intervention for parent carers of disabled children: protocol for a feasibility study using a parallel group randomised controlled trial design

Abstract:
Correction to: Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy for Young People and Their Carers: a Mixed-Method Feasibility Study (Mindfulness, (2018), 9, 4, (1063-1075), 10.1007/s12671-017-0842-7)

Abstract:
Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy for Young People and Their Carers: a Mixed-Method Feasibility Study

Abstract:
Perfect Bedfellows: Why Early Intervention can Play a Critical Role in Protecting Children - a Response to Featherstone et al. (2014) - a Marriage Made in Hell: Child Protection Meets Early Intervention'

Abstract:
Debt counselling for depression in primary care: an adaptive randomised controlled pilot trial (DeCoDer study)

Abstract:
Effectiveness and micro-costing of the KiVa school-based bullying prevention programme in Wales: study protocol for a pragmatic definitive parallel group cluster randomised controlled trial.

Abstract:
Incredible Years parenting programme: Cost-effectiveness and implementation

Abstract:
Innovations in Practice: Further evidence on the effectiveness of the strengths and difficulties added value score as an outcome measure for child and adolescent services

Abstract:
Engaging parents in parenting programs: Lessons from research and practice

Abstract:
Can study tours help promote evidence-based practice in children's services?

Abstract:
Linking prevention science and community engagement: a case study of the Ireland Disadvantaged Children and Youth Programme

Abstract:
Enhancing service evaluability: Lessons from a programme for disaffected young people

Abstract:
Exploring the potential of shadow controls in the evaluation of children's services

Abstract:
Research-Based Practice Tools to Improve Child Welfare Services in England: Using the Going Home? Practice Tool to Support the Effective Reunification of Families

Abstract:
Promoting Learning from Null or Negative Results in Prevention Science Trials.

Abstract:
Assessing the Feasibility of a Parent Life Coaching Intervention to Support Parents and Children Who Have Experienced Domestic Violence and Abuse

Abstract:
Co-occurring change in children's conduct problems and maternal depression: Latent class individual participant data meta-analysis of the Incredible Years parenting program.

Abstract:
Equity effects of parenting interventions for child conduct problems: a pan-European individual participant data meta-analysis.

Abstract:
Experiences of interventions aiming to improve the mental health and well-being of children and young people with a long-term physical condition: a systematic review and meta-ethnography.

Abstract:
Healthy Parent Carers peer-led group-based health promotion intervention for parent carers of disabled children: protocol for a feasibility study using a parallel group randomised controlled trial design

Abstract:
Correction to: Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy for Young People and Their Carers: a Mixed-Method Feasibility Study (Mindfulness, (2018), 9, 4, (1063-1075), 10.1007/s12671-017-0842-7)

Abstract:
Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy for Young People and Their Carers: a Mixed-Method Feasibility Study

Abstract:
Perfect Bedfellows: Why Early Intervention can Play a Critical Role in Protecting Children - a Response to Featherstone et al. (2014) - a Marriage Made in Hell: Child Protection Meets Early Intervention'

Abstract:
Debt counselling for depression in primary care: an adaptive randomised controlled pilot trial (DeCoDer study)

Abstract:
Effectiveness and micro-costing of the KiVa school-based bullying prevention programme in Wales: study protocol for a pragmatic definitive parallel group cluster randomised controlled trial.

Abstract:
Incredible Years parenting programme: Cost-effectiveness and implementation

Abstract:
Innovations in Practice: Further evidence on the effectiveness of the strengths and difficulties added value score as an outcome measure for child and adolescent services

Abstract:
Engaging parents in parenting programs: Lessons from research and practice

Abstract:
Can study tours help promote evidence-based practice in children's services?

Abstract:
Linking prevention science and community engagement: a case study of the Ireland Disadvantaged Children and Youth Programme

Abstract:
Research-Based Practice Tools to Improve Child Welfare Services in England: Using the Going Home? Practice Tool to Support the Effective Reunification of Families

Abstract:
Enhancing service evaluability: Lessons from a programme for disaffected young people

Abstract:
Exploring the potential of shadow controls in the evaluation of children's services

Abstract:
Forty years of research, policy and practice in children's services a festschrift for Roger Bullock