I see evaluation as an opportunity to reflect with stakeholders so that achievements can be celebrated and lessons can be learned.
This is usually best done by analysing and monitoring data, looking at practice from elsewhere and using semi-structured interviews to explore the issues with service users, staff and partners. This process of exploration can raise lots of questions but invariably helps to clarify and confirm what is working well, what needs to change and what is most important.
Evaluation work has included:
- estate based regeneration, capacity building and early intervention programmes
- multi-media and music technology courses for marginalised young people
- drug treatment and anti social behaviour initiatives
- a project to widen theatre and gallery attendance
- a support service for high risk offenders