It is important to consider how you demonstrate value for money, whether you have evidence that your activity makes a difference and how you measure the quality of your project. The following resources encourage you to consider the options.
Do we need ISO?
This is a useful publication which helps you understand the relevance of International Organisation for Standardisation quality scoring systems in the commissioning process.
Practical Quality Assurance System for Small Organisations
The PQASSO guide gives advice on quality assurance systems for voluntary and community organisations.
Community Benefit - Measuring the Impact of Arts and Craft Activity
This Voluntary Arts Network briefing is an excellent overview of a range of tools that you can use to measure the impact of your projects.
A guide to Social Return on Investment
The Social Return on Investment model is a recognised way to measure the wider economic impact of your work. The first part of this guide is a useful introduction to social return on investment. The second part offers a more detailed, comprehensive approach to undertaking a study.
The Impact database
The Impact database is a resource relating to research on the social and economic effects of arts, culture and major events. It is being and maintained by the Centre for Cultural Policy Research (CCPR) at the University of Glasgow, and has been commissioned and funded by the Scottish Government. It offers UK wide examples.
The Culture and Sport Evidence Programme
CASE is the new 3 year joint programme of research led by the Department for Culture Media and Sport in collaboration with Arts Council England, English Heritage, the Museums Libraries and Archives Council and Sport England.
Resources for organisations working with children and young people
Learning Outside the Classroom
The LOtC website is a useful resource for organisations working with young people aged 0-19.
Arts Award
Arts Award offers young people a nationally recognised qualification and can support organisations wishing to develop a body of evidence and establish quality frameworks.
Artsmark
The pilot of next generation of the Artsmark scheme will recognise quality arts learning opportunities offered by any organisation.
Safeguarding
Safeguarding is an important issue for anyone commissioning services for children, young people or vulnerable adults. The NSPCC has produced a range of resources on safeguarding. Your local Safeguarding Board, who you can contact through your local authority, will also be able to help with details of advice, training and support.
