Thrive Under 5

GCPH is the evaluation partner on the project. The evaluation objectives are: 

• To provide a clear and transparent outline of the evaluation approach, including how we will work with partners to capture and write-up learning. 
• To support locality leads and delivery organisations in the determination of how to collect useful data on the project and what questions to ask as part of this process.  
• To collate data and information from locality leads/delivery partners into an evaluation report. 
• To review relevant documents and meeting papers that can be used to support the write-up of the project. 
• To capture information on the project through primary research with those involved in delivering it. 
• To summarise relevant information and learning at Steering Group meetings. 
• With support and approval of all project partners, to write up a coherent report of the project which captures progress and key learning across the project’s timeline, and which situates this within the current and evolving context. 

The evaluation is capturing information on project reach, process learning from the approach, and the extent to which there is a direction of travel towards achieving the agreed project outcomes. The following research questions are driving the evaluation:  

• To what extent has the project developed in line with agreed project plan?  
• What impact has the project had on families across the three areas?  
• What factors have shaped the delivery of the project?  
• To what extent have the agreed project outcomes been met? 

Key learning from year one of the project evaluation:  

• The project broadly developed in line with the project plan despite delays and challenges relating to COVID-19 restrictions and the emerging cost-of-living crisis.  
• The financial inclusion element of the project provided support to 155 families across the three areas. This included advice and assistance on a range of issues, including welfare, money advice, energy support and access to healthy food.  
• 47 families benefited from the use of Alexandra Rose vouchers in the North West.  
• East End Flat Pack Meals were distributed to 115 families across the three areas, with a further 300 meals being shared at community events.  
• Progress was demonstrated against each of the eight project outcomes, although it is too early to assess impact.  
• Opportunities are emerging following the removal of COVID-19 restrictions but rises in the cost of living are pushing more people in each area into poverty or destitution. This has increased demand for family services and support. 
• Supporting positive behaviour change is challenging within a context of worsening poverty and rising food insecurity.  
• Local support for the approach and the availability of funding has been crucial for driving forward actions.  
• There is a strong will to see more families benefit from the project, but the current project timescales are insufficient to deliver on aspects that could lead to long-term behaviour changes.  
• There is growing interest in the project both within the three localities and beyond. With additional funding, it may be beneficial to extend the project to all Thriving Places areas in the city, but more time is needed to assess which aspects of the project have been most effective. 

Learning from the year one evaluation will drive priorities for the remainder of the project. It also identified aspects of the project where more comprehensive evaluation is required or a different approach to capturing information may be needed.