Organised by SCVO, the Gathering is the largest free voluntary sector event in the UK. We’ll be there running a session as well as exhibiting. Our session will help you understand the importance (and joy) of clear outcomes, and how to write them.
The Joy of Clear Outcomes
Location: Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC)
Street Address: 50 Morrison Street, Edinburgh, EH3 8EE
Date: 11th February 2026
Time: 13:30-14:45
Room: Kilsyth room
The difference our third sector makes to people, families and communities is significant; making a difference is what drives so much of the work we do. But how do you know you are making the difference you hoped to make? And how do you know you are doing that in the way that best meets the needs of those you work with?
Outcomes are the change or difference you want to make. Evaluating them helps you measure and report on your impact, as well as learn about what works and improve your services. But how do you write clear outcomes and why would that be in any way joyful?
This session will be both informative and interactive. We will:
- explore the difference between outcomes and activities and why you should keep them apart,
- look at the stages of evaluation and the importance of getting your outcomes right before sending out questionnaires,
- share our guidance for writing clear outcomes and give you the chance to have a go,
- touch on using your outcomes to help you think about what to measure when.
Even if we can’t make you fall in love with evaluation in an hour, we will point you to some free resources and let you know about other ways we can help.
This session will be led by ESS Deputy CEO Martha Lester-Cribb
Our event, like all events at the Gathering, is free to attend and places are limited. This event is now fully booked.
