Report

Helping funders to measure what matters

This report from UK think tank PBE looks at using wellbeing to understand the value for money of Spirit of 2012 grants.

Funders influence how impact is measured in the social sector. Their data needs to shape both the type of data charities collect and how they use it. However, the need for charities to balance data collection with providing services to beneficiaries can create tension between funders and grantees. Funders must find a balance between asking for data to understand impact and reducing the burden on grantees and their beneficiaries.

Wellbeing measurement offers a valuable opportunity for funders wanting to become more measurement focused. Our wellbeing – the sense of how we are feeling and functioning – is now a robust outcome that can be measured using simple, pragmatic tools. These measures can help to provide robust impact conclusions while minimising costs and complexities for funders and their beneficiaries.