Nudgelab

This is how we increased foster homes in western Norway

Bufetat region west (The Norwegian Directorate for Children, Youth and Family Affairs, Western Region) needed more foster homes. We used behavioral psychology and nudging to meet the annual need for 1000 new families.

Results
50%
Increase in submitted EP-forms.
Results
80%
Increase in completed home visits.
Results
9/10
Families read the information they receive

Results

50%

Increase in submitted EP-forms

Results

50%

Increase in submitted EP-forms

Results

80%

Increase in completed home visits

Results

80%

Increase in completed home visits

Results

9/10

Families read the information they receive

Results

9/10

Families read the information they receive

Prosess

Surveys, in-depth interviews, process mapping, observations, and more confirmed that the foster care service does a very important and highly valued job, but that there was also potential for improvement.

Based on the findings, several measures were developed to improve information, communication, and flexibility. This included, among other things, a new information brochure, digital meetings, standardized SMS templates, and a practical guide to reassure families before a home visit.

Results

From June to December 2024, Bufetat west tested an experimental package consisting of ten different measures. The positive results made up for the extensive implementation work:

A 50% increase in submitted EP forms
An 80% increase in the number of completed home visits
9 out of 10 families read the information they receive
Bufetat West has been tasked by Bufdir (the national directorate) with creating a professional standard for following up with families, and there is significant interest in the work from other regions

A 50% increase in submitted EP forms
An 80% increase in the number of completed home visits
9 out of 10 families read the information they receive
Bufetat West has been tasked by Bufdir (the national directorate) with creating a professional standard for following up with families, and there is significant interest in the work from other regions

The measures are already yielding positive results, and more families are now completing the process. Final numbers on the increase in course participation will be available in the autumn of 2025. The measures are being continuously evaluated, adjusted, and scaled.

“In my opinion, we should continue with the nudging initiatives; this provides a better and higher-quality family service early in the recruitment process.”

Advisor for foster homes

What could be improved?

The registration system (ROS) has limitations that should be improved. There is also a need for clear leadership and a continuous focus on the initiatives.

Sources