Step 10: Evaluate and share learning

Why do this

  • Engagement is one way we influence how the public think about us. 
  • We need to understand how to improve what we do and the public are best placed to help us do that.
  • To avoid consultation fatigue use built-in evaluation either during or immediately at the end of an activity.

Ask

  • Were the aims understood by all participants and researchers?
  • Were the methods used participant-friendly?
  • Did they stay interested?
  • Did participants understand the process - what was going to happen?
  • Was the timescale / process transparent and kept to?
  • Was the information accessible, e.g. plain English, translations and alternative formats made available?
  • Did ‘hard to reach’ people get involved?
  • Were a representative set of views – according to your population profile - obtained?
  • Was a report on their views shared with participants and made available to the public?
  • Did it lead to a change of policy, service etc?
  • Did you inform the participants and public about the decisions made?
  • What were the costs (including staff time)?

Remember

  • Share what you have learnt with others inside and outside your organisation
  • Tell people what worked and what didn’t
  • What you would do differently next time so they can learn from what you have done

Outcomes

  • If they experience an interesting, good quality informative and rewarding process, our reputation will improve and they are more likely to become involved again.