Innovation sounds exciting, but what about simply getting evidence into practice? Many computer games are now built with the intention that they will be modified by enthusiastic users. Consumers are actually participating in the design of the game. We need to think about the adoption and adaptation of evidence of effectiveness in the same way.

This event will stimulate dialogue about how best to create a culture of embedded learning and evaluation, so that evidence about ‘what works’ really does get used well by funders and commissioners of services, practitioners, citizens and communities.

In keeping with the theme of the FSF2018, we will draw inspiration from the experience of evaluating a national pilot programme for children and young people in recovery from domestic abuse.

Our focus will be on the future; we will use that story to provoke discussion amongst us about how we can align our values of participation, collaboration and appreciation with our thinking and practice about evidence to recognise what is working well and to make the impact that is needed.

This event is likely to appeal to anyone with an interest in how to create better public services. We hope that this event will lead to a series of ‘Touch Papers’ to continue and broaden this dialogue.

Co-hosted by: Cathy Sharp (Research for Real) and Donny Scott (formerly City of Edinburgh Council)