Lesson 9 of 10
Measuring impact (so it counts)
Learning objectives
- Choose 3 impact measures you can actually evidence
- Distinguish outputs from outcomes from impact
- Set a baseline + review rhythm before the programme starts
- Report impact in a way funders, partners and the Regulator accept
Outputs vs outcomes vs impact
Outputs: what you delivered (sessions, hours, participants). Outcomes: short-term changes for participants (fitness, confidence, attendance). Impact: the longer-term shift (employment, school engagement, reduced isolation, NHS contact reduction).
Most coaches stop at outputs. The unlock is outcomes — and over time, the credible claim to impact.
Baseline before week 1
Capture a baseline before delivery starts: short questionnaire, optional physical marker, attendance projection. You can't claim a change you didn't measure at the start.
Report so it counts
One-page programme report: outputs (numbers), 3 outcomes (entry vs exit), 2 participant quotes (with consent), one honest learning. Annual community report (CIC34) aggregates the year. Funders + partners get the relevant programme report; the Regulator gets the CIC34.
Founder insight — Derrick Twum
The CICs that win £50k+ grants by year three are almost always the ones that ran tiny £500 programmes with a real baseline + report in year one.
Key takeaway
Pick 3 outcomes, capture baseline before week 1, report in one page per programme + one CIC34 per year.
Reflection questions
- 1What 3 outcomes will you measure next programme?
- 2What's your baseline capture tool?
- 3What does your CIC34 actually need to evidence this year?
- 4Where are you stuck at outputs and never reaching outcomes?
Action task
Pick your 3 outcomes for the next programme. Build the baseline form today.
Worksheet
Work through these prompts. Answers save to this device.
Answers are saved to this device. Use Download to keep a copy.
Related MEM tools
- Impact Reporting
- Funding Templates