Evaluating community development for health: a survey of evaluation activity across the Lothians

Abstract

This research examines the experiences of project workers in one Scottish Health Board area in evaluating community development for health initiatives. A field study was undertaken, involving semi-structured telephone interviews with workers from 15 community health projects across the Lothians: Sup plementary data were gathered by documentary analysis. A predominance of process evaluation was found, with a bias toward the use of qualitative methods. Impact evaluation was also undertaken. Lack of resources emerged as a major problem. The need for training in research methods and evaluation techniques and a greater understanding of the community-development approach on the part of funding bodies was identified. There was no indication that negotiations took place between projects and funders regarding criteria and methods. Clear guidance from funders about their expectations regarding evaluation would be welcome.