What does START aim to find out?

We aim to carry out a pragmatic trial that will inform policy makers, commissioners of services and professionals about the potential of MST in the UK. We will determine whether the provision of MST can reduce the incidence of out-of-home placements, severe mental health problems, educational problems or unmet need. The trial will answer the question of whether MST can contribute to significantly reducing the rate of out-of-home placement

We will also investigate whether MST is associated with;

(a) a decrease in antisocial behaviour,
(b) improved educational outcomes and
(c) improved family functioning.

Moreover, we aim to establish the cost of MST in comparison to usual services, and the cost-effectiveness of providing this intensive form of intervention.