Our impact
We measure out impact in a number of ways — client surveys, qualitative research with clients and system partners, and by calculating social return on investment.
The impact we’re seeking to make
We strive for women, girls, and their families to be safe, strong, well and connected — to embody their strength and lead full lives. We focus on solving social problems in a holistic way, and direct our efforts where society can get the best return on our investment.
Our current focus is in financial wellbeing. Many people and families face financial hardship and harm. For example, they do not have enough money to live comfortably, have no savings for assets or emergencies, and have unmanageable and/or unjust debt. This harms people’s wellbeing and holds them back from leading full lives.
We see the huge impact of economic abuse and harm from family violence, the gender pay gap, intergenerational financial insecurity and more. Many women are excluded from aspects of health and society due to lack of financial resources. Their only option is to take on more debt, give up safety, or go without essentials.
Our services help reduce harm while providing new opportunities. Our work to drive and support system change help stop harm before it happens and reduce its impact. We are always working in line with our ‘theory of change’. We have impact logic models for all our services and initiatives. We are clear on the impact we’re seeking to make.
How we measure our impact
We measure our impact in a number of ways, including:
- Client surveys, which measure various things before and after support from our service
- Qualitative research with people who have be supported by Good Sheperd
- Qualitative research with system partners, who are important in delivering services and driving system change
- Calculating social return on investment.
Client impact surveys
Our client surveys help us to understand our impact from our client’s point of view. We want to know we’re making a difference to them, and figure out how to become even more helpful to their outcomes. We’re proud of the difference we make.
17%
decrease in worry about money.
11%
Increase in income meets everyday needs.
11%
Increase in money left over at the end of the month.
3%
Increase in keep track of my spending.
12%
Increase in feel have control over my finances.
18%
Increase in feel confident about financial future.
18%
Increase in feel hopeful for the future.
37%
Increase in feel control over how life turns out.
34%
Increase in satisfaction with life as a whole.
Client stories
The impact for people shines through in client stories and feedback.
“Thank you, thank you so much. You have no idea how long I have been waiting for good news. Everyone always has the best intentions but for some reason or another, they can never help! I am forever grateful and will pay it forward as soon as I can.”