The Development of the Outcomes Star A Participatory Approach to.docVIP

The Development of the Outcomes Star: A Participatory Approach to Assessment and Outcome Measurement Joy MacKeith, Triangle Consulting Social Enterprise Published in Housing Care and Support: A journal on policy, research and practice, Vol 14, No. 3, 2011, ? Emerald Group Publishing Ltd Abstract Purpose of this paper This paper describes the development process for the Outcomes Stars as a suite of tools which are designed to simultaneously measure and support change when working with vulnerable people as service users. It describes the original process of development of the first Star, in homelessness services in the UK; and subsequent roll out to other client groups and in other countries. The paper indicates the theoretical and philosophical under-pinning of an approach which aims to embody both research and values-based practice in empowerment and respect for the individual. Design/methodology/approach As a case study of development, by the development team, the paper is based on first-hand knowledge, but builds upon extensive consultations with practitioners and users, and relates these to the needs and strengths of service users, the contemporary policy framework, and wider research in the field. Findings The Outcomes Star draws on the core principles of Action Research and Participatory Action Research and extends them beyond research into assessment and outcome measurement.. There has been as yet no formal research on the usefulness of the Star approach; but there is a rapid take up of this approach within the UK and further afield. The paper argues that the approach has proved popular because the Outcomes Star is rooted in a philosophy that is more in tune with that of people delivering services, and more closely reflects the reality of those receiving services, compared to traditional measurement techniques.? Practical and social implications