We take a participatory approach to evaluation, focussing less on numbers of social media like, or the number of participants at an event, and more about the impact for an individual or community.

We support participants to feel less inhibited about sharing their experiences and expressing their feelings by working with a participatory evaluation approach that uses engaging and accessible tools and exercises for groups and individuals.

What We Offer

Food Matters uses a participatory approach to evaluation. That means we focus less on numbers of social media likes, or the number of participants at an event and more about impact on the individual or the community.    

Participatory evaluation uses visually engaging, interactive individual and group activities and tools that help participants feel less inhibited about sharing their experiences and expressing their feelings.  We co-produce the evaluation framework with participants to ensure that we are evaluating what’s important to them and that the process is accessible and appropriate.  

We use a variety of methods to thoroughly assess and understand the information we work with. These include: 

  • Data Analysis: We study and interpret numerical and qualitative information to spot trends and patterns. 
  • Historical Comparison: We look at past events and situations to understand how they compare to today, helping us make informed predictions. 
  • Document Research: We dive deep into existing reports, papers, and records to gather valuable insights. 
  • Interviews with Key People: We speak directly with important individuals who have first-hand knowledge to get their expert perspectives. 
  • Surveys: We gather feedback and opinions from a broad group of people to better understand their needs and experiences. 
  • Workshops: We host interactive sessions where participants actively engage to share ideas, solve problems, and plan for the future. 

This mix of methods ensures we provide a well-rounded and comprehensive understanding to inform decision-making and strategy. 

We work with a wide variety of organisations and businesses, local authorities, food groups and partnerships, school children, young adults, and members of the public – and the specific approach we adopt is determined by the needs of the group. 

Evaluation Examples:

– School Food Matters Evaluation

We evaluated the School Meals Improvement Campaign led by School Food Matters. The evaluation assessed the success of the campaign in improving the nutritional content of meals for school children.

– Breakfast Club Review Evaluation

Commissioned by the Mayor’s Fund for London (MFL) we evaluated the impact and suitability of breakfast clubs, in addressing health and wellbeing, skills and employment for London’s poorest children.

– Food Use Places Project

Alongside Brighton and Hove Food Partnership we worked together to evaluate and develop food use confidence. Behaviours related to food use confidence support the reduction of food waste.

– Lewes House Community Garden

We were commissioned to lead a facilitated evaluation session to help members of the Lewes House Community Garden explore the benefits of attending.

‘Food Matters’ innovative approach to community engagement is unique’ – Stephanie Slater, Founder/Director School Food Matters

Get In Touch

Reach out to the Food Matters team to find out more about what we do, get involved or to collaborate with us on a future project.

Get In Touch

Get in touch with the Food Matters team to find out more about what we do or get involved. We also want to hear from you if you would like to collaborate with us on a future project.