Toolkit and Video
We have recently completed an exciting pilot project using Appreciative Inquiry as an alternative evaluation process
Here is a copy of the free toolkit| we have created as part of the project.
Find out more by watching the video we made whilst working with the Blackthorn Trust. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qWSu0gPCk6c|
About the Project
With initial support from the Higher Education Funding Council (HEIF4), the Department of Leadership and Management Development worked collaboratively with the Centre of Health and Social Care Research to develop a model and toolkit that enables organisations in health and social care develop and diversify their services without compromising their health outcomes.
In 2010, we tested our approach with the Blackthorn Trust a charity which supports people with mental or physical health difficulties and in 2011 we went on to work with Age Concern Whitstable.
Both these organisations were facing uncertain futures with changes to funding arrangements and a general squeeze on resources. They were looking to use the Valuation process to secure their long term success by engaging the full buy in from co workers (clients), volunteers, staff and trustees.
The Appreciative Inquiry ‘Valuation’ approach differs to more traditional ‘evaluation’ approaches in two main ways. Firstly it is focussed on identifying and promoting what is good about the organisation, rather than on the organisation’s deficits. Secondly it is carried out by the organisation itself, engendering high levels of ownership by drawing out energy and momentum for positive change from within rather than seeking external expertise to “do to” the organisation.
Both organisations report high levels of satisfaction from their engagement with the project.
It’s put some solid ground under our feet in terms of our thinking, made sure we are all on the same page. The strategic plan allows people to know what the broad framework is, so that we can all work within this and continue to develop ideas that fit. We know where we are going and what we need to do ,that’s the gift we’ve been given by Christ Church and the legacy they’ve left behind.
Jan Prior, Chief Executive, The Blackthorn Trust
The whole experience has given Age Concern a real buzz of enthusiasm! We are all planning ideas and events to secure a successful future with a really positive contribution. Although some of the future is beyond our control we remain extremely positive.
Roger Ollive, Chief Officer, Age Concern Whitstable
Evaluation consultant, Dr Sonia Vougioukalou said: ‘In the current economic climate, many charities are looking into developing as a social enterprise and are concerned about the impact of organisational changes on the wellbeing of service users. Appreciative Inquiry is particularly suitable to organisations that rely on people volunteering time and resources as it puts these people in the driver’s seat to deliver sustainable development and enhanced health outcomes for service users.’
If you would like to talk to us about how this approach could help your organisation. Contact Sally Cray, 01892 507620. Sally.cray@canterbury.ac.uk| or Sonia Vouioukalou, sonia.vougioukalou@canterbury.ac.uk|