Presents the findings of an evaluation of the into partnership programme. Lists the programme's objectives and assesses whether they have been met. Uses feedback from individuals, programme partners and stakeholders to consider the sustainability of the programme beyond April 2006. Outlines the aims and achievements of programme users, the impact of into on users, the extent to which into encouraged the take-up of other services, and awareness of the into brand. Considers the success of partnership working and the effectiveness of communication between into, its service users and partner organisations. Describes aspects of the programme which could serve as examples of good practice for adoption by other projects.

Into is an SRB (Single Regeneration Budget) core-funded project which stemmed from the need for a community information exchange service. The project has developed in stages since 2001, expanding from a web information service to become a network of resource centres and a training provider. This evaluation was commissioned in advance of the close of the SRB funding in April 2006 in order to assess the project’s sustainability and the effectiveness of its services.

The evaluation was carried out by an independent consultancy, Synergis. It draws on qualitative data resulting from in-depth interviews and focus groups with a wide range of individuals and organisations (total 67), including service users, community organisations, partner and stakeholder organisations, and programme staff. Also uses desk research and data supplied by into partners on programme outcomes.

Finds that the into programme succeeded in meeting the majority of its objectives and that it had provided suitable services to meet the learning, training and employment skills needs of clients. Identifies high levels of satisfaction among service users and community groups who referred people to the programme. Notes that there was not sufficient evidence that the objectives relating to support for local businesses and other local projects had been met, however infrastructure had been developed to meet these objectives in the next phase of the programme. Concludes that the into programme had impacted on employment, skills and local area regeneration, as well as on participants’ confidence and local engagement.

Synergis
Barbara Mason (Consultant), tel. +44 (0) 20 8400 2521

01/06/2006

research

Urban Policy > Social inclusion & integration > Quality of life

Skills improvement