Development of a practical guide to volunteering impact assessment
Client:
Cabinet Office (On behalf of Tribal Education)
Cabinet Office (On behalf of Tribal Education)
Date completed:
Currently underway
Project description:
The main aim of this action research project is to develop a practical guide to impact assessment, which is based on both the lessons learnt by GoldStar organisations in seeking to implement different approaches to impact assessment and also the good practice developed by such organisations in relation to impact assessment by working with socially excluded groups. It is proposed that this guide will provide a foundation for the future development of good practice and therefore provide a basis for the future sustainability of volunteering amongst socially excluded groups.
The aims of the research will be achieved through a comprehensive research process based upon the practices of all 46 GoldStar organisations, which will involve:
- A thorough review of the impact assessment approach adopted and the practical issues faced by GoldStar organisations in implementing meaningful approaches to impact assessment
- The current impact of their project and or volunteering activity. Specific consideration will also be given to the use of PSA targets and/or National Indicators for Local Authorities and Local Authority Strategic partnerships which are of relevance to individual GoldStar organisations
- Barriers to improving these impacts;
- What action would be required to tackle these barriers;
- Implications for wider public policy;
- Support of specific good practice approaches in order to improve local service outcomes.