Two independent impact evaluations provide compelling evidence of the difference First Step’s integrated model of care makes in people’s lives. Turning Point’s evaluation examines First Step’s multidisciplinary approach as a whole, finding that its combination of health, mental health, substance use and legal support delivers meaningful improvements across clients’ health and social wellbeing. It highlights the importance of skilled staff, a welcoming and non-judgemental environment, and having one trusted place where people can receive help with multiple, interconnected needs.
The University of Melbourne’s evaluation focuses more closely on First Step Legal and its role within this integrated model. It found that access to co-located legal assistance was associated with improved wellbeing, greater confidence in addressing legal issues, better access to justice and increased satisfaction with legal outcomes. A concise summary of the First Step Legal evaluation is also available, providing an accessible overview of its principal findings. Together, the evaluations show both the strength of First Step’s overall model and the particular contribution of integrated legal assistance, demonstrating how coordinated, person-centred support can address the complex and overlapping challenges experienced by First Step’s clients.
Citations:
Peart, A., Findlay, L., & Manning, V. (2025, October). First Step evaluation. Turning Point.
First Step Legal. (2024, December). Evaluating the outcomes of First Step Legal’s health justice partnerships. First Step Legal. Research conducted in partnership with the University of Melbourne’s School of Population and Global Health.
