The need for an Evaluation Service [2]
Why Participatory Evaluation?
Alongside the external pressure for improved monitoring and evaluation, there has in the last few years been an increasing recognition of the importance of involving beneficiaries as key stakeholders within the evaluation process, thus empowering individual members and acting as a learning experience.
Participatory evaluation is also about building the capacity of organisations to take on new challenges. It is not just about reviewing and measuring what has been achieved but also contains a strong element of strengthening organisations, encouraging them to reflect on their experience, build their learning into future development, develop their skills and expertise and enhance their sustainability. The Trust's participatory and practical approach to evaluation is unusual in the UK, though standard amongst international development agencies. Its work complements that of the national Charities Evaluation Services. There is a gap in provision of evaluation resources in the South West and nationally for participatory evaluation. Most small and medium organisations have not currently budgeted for the cost of evaluation; the Trust cannot respond to all small organisations that need its help. Few other organisations are taking a developmental role with funders and other infrastructure organisations. The Trust has developed co-operative relationships with other providers. A marketing strategy is needed to ensure that those who might need the Evaluation Trust have heard of it and that there are resources to meet the needs identified.
