Background: In the UK, Early Intensive Behavioural Intervention [EIBI] programmes typically are conducted within the homes of children with autism. Despite evidence for their effectiveness in producing appreciable developmental gains in children with autism, a concern expressed about EIBI programmes is that stressful effects from the high levels of demand they place on family resources could undermine their effectiveness [The Effectiveness of Early Interventions for Children with Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD). A report for the DfES South East Regional Special Educational Needs Partnership. SERSEN Website, 2004]. This study investigates the positive impacts and the stressors experienced by families running EIBI programmes. Method: Sixteen parents from nine different families participated in semi-structured qualitative interviews on their experiences of running a home-based EIBI programme. Data were analysed using the Grounded Theory process. Results: Positive and negative impacts of the programmes were reported. Analysis indicated that sources of support obtained through the programmes' benefits offset sources of stress through the programmes' demands. Conclusions: The interaction between programme demands and benefits and the resources available to each family strongly influences the impact of running a home-based EIBI programme.