International collaboration advances parenting support programme in Montenegro
Last week, the University hosted an international delegation from Montenegro as part of an ESRC International collaboration grant awarded to Professor Judy Hutchings and Dr Margiad Williams of the Centre for Evidence Based Early Intervention based at the School of Psychology and Sports Science.
The week-long visit brought together Professor Biljana Maslovaric and Dr Milica Jelic from the University of Montenegro with Ida Ferdinandi and Serdjan Baftijari from UNICEF Montenegro.
The delegation met with Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Oliver Turnbull and Professor Dave Richardson, Head of the School of Psychology and Sports Science, to discuss ongoing collaborative work. The centerpiece of the visit was a conference, which showcased the seven-year partnership implementing the Parenting for Lifelong Health (PLH) programme for young children across Montenegro.
Professor Hutchings, who co-authored the original PLH programme, highlighted Bangor's significant contribution to this international initiative. The programme has now gained Montenegrin government recognition and is fully embedded in national services, as detailed in the team's recent publication in Prevention Science.
The ESRC-funded project is now focusing on adapting the programme for Montenegro's Roma community. Additionally, a new UNICEF-cofunded initiative will evaluate adaptations designed to support children with ADHD, ASD, and language delay.
Professor Hutchings said;
This collaboration exemplifies the University's commitment to international partnerships that translate research into practical interventions with meaningful societal impact. The visit has strengthened foundations for future collaborative work between our institutions.