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 only. Cloud sync coming soon.
Related MEM tools
- Impact Reporting
- Funding Templates