Charity Research Consultants - Experts in Evaluation Services and Theory of Change

Ian is a Theory of Change consultant and lead charity researcher and evaluator, dedicated to enhancing charity outcomes through effective impact measurement. With over thirty years of experience delivering analytical projects and leading teams of researchers, economists, and data scientists, Ian has a proven track record in the field. His previous roles include: Head of Research, Monitoring and Evaluation at the National Autistic Society; Chief Analyst at the Office for Disability Issues; Head of Performance Analysis at Jobcentre Plus; and Senior Civil Servant at the Department for Education.

Charity researcher Karen specializes in interviewing charity staff and clients, focusing on the thematic analysis of qualitative survey data to assess charity outcomes. Her expertise is enhanced by her training with the Social Research Association, particularly in impact measurement and the Theory of Change framework. 

Previously, Karen worked for Shelter, the housing and homelessness charity, and at the Department for Work and Pensions within performance monitoring and social justice teams. Additionally, as a volunteer, she has provided one-to-one reading support for primary school children.

Samuel is a charity data analyst and survey designer, specializing in impact measurement for charity outcomes. He is highly skilled in Excel/VBA, SmartSurvey, and SurveyMonkey. Samuel has held data-focused roles in charities, schools, and a major bank, in addition to working as a maths tutor and serving as a Personal Assistant to a young autistic man. He holds a First Class Honours degree in mathematics and received the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications prize for his outstanding performance in the final year of the course. Additionally, Samuel is adept at solving cryptic crosswords, applying a logical approach that aligns with the Theory of Change framework.

To evaluate charity outcomes effectively, it is essential to employ impact measurement techniques that align with our Theory of Change. This approach ensures that we can accurately assess the effectiveness of our initiatives and their contributions to the community.

Researcher Alice is a values-led Honorary Research Associate based at the University of Surrey. Specialising in qualitative research, she adopts a person-centred approach to her work, focusing particularly on neurodiversity and mental health. Alice excels in producing accessible, high-quality outputs that contribute to charity outcomes, utilizing impact measurement and the Theory of Change to enhance her projects. She ensures participants feel at ease by fostering thoughtful, inclusive discussions that are both accessible and engaging.

We work with a small, trusted network of data analysts and charity researchers who focus on measuring charity outcomes. Reflecting Ian’s background in autism research, many of our colleagues are neurodivergent and contribute to our understanding of impact measurement through the lens of the Theory of Change.