I was commissioned to carry out an independent project evaluation for RAY Ceredigion, a community-based organisation supporting children, young people, families and adults across Ceredigion. The work I undertook with RAY Ceredigion’s Community Connections Project was delivered between July 2025 – April 2026.
The RAY Ceredigion project evaluation focused on a Lottery-funded project and was designed to understand the project’s delivery, reach, value and emerging impact. As the findings are not yet public, this portfolio summary focuses on the evaluation approach rather than the outcomes.
My role was to design and deliver a practical, mixed-methods evaluation that brought together both quantitative and qualitative insight. This included reviewing existing project data, developing evaluation tools, engaging directly with staff, volunteers, service users and wider stakeholders, and drawing the learning together into a clear, accessible report.
The work included:
- Reviewing existing monitoring information and project documentation
- Observing project activity face to face
- Speaking with staff, volunteers and service users
- Gathering insight from secondary beneficiaries, including carers and family members
- Carrying out online stakeholder interviews
- Designing feedback tools using Microsoft Forms
- Mapping RAY Ceredigion’s role within the wider local service landscape
- Attending a community stakeholder event in Aberaeron
A key part of the project evaluation was making sure that the voices of those closest to the project were represented sensitively and meaningfully. This included people accessing dementia support, young adults, families and carers, alongside staff and partner organisations.
The evaluation approach was grounded in curiosity, care and practical usefulness. Rather than simply reporting activity, the work aimed to help RAY Ceredigion understand its contribution, capture learning, and strengthen future planning, funding conversations and partnership development.
The final report will provide an evidence-informed picture of delivery and impact, while supporting reflection on sustainability, community need and RAY Ceredigion’s place within the wider support system.
Although the detailed findings are not yet public, the evaluation pointed to the positive contribution RAY Ceredigion makes to individuals, families and communities across Ceredigion. The work highlighted the value of trusted, community-based support that creates space for connection, confidence-building, wellbeing and inclusion. It also reflected RAY Ceredigion’s wider role within the local support landscape: helping people feel heard, reducing isolation, strengthening relationships and contributing to a more connected network of community care across the county.
If you would like to talk about how I can support your organisation with specific tasks and activities feel free to get in touch
