This working paper explores the potential for applying synthetic control methods to place-based interventions within Scotland, making use of the increasing availability of routinely collected data. Summary Synthetic control methods are a novel approach to comparative case study research using
Reflecting on what works in developing authentic relationships in complex settings
This short briefing paper shares What Works Scotland’s early learning on how to develop authentic relationships that are durable, sustainable and honest, when working within the complex dynamics of community planning partnerships.
Scottish Parliament hears evidence from What Works Scotland
Two directors of What Works Scotland shared their expertise and insights with the Scottish Parliament. Dr Oliver Escobar spoke to the Commission on Parliamentary Reform and Professor Ken Gibb gave evidence to the Local Government and Communities Committee and the Social Security Committee.
Learning about community capacity-building from the Community Links Worker approach in Insch, Aberdeenshire (2013-16): a collaborative action research inquiry (cycle 1)
This action research report looks at community capacity-building which improves health and wellbeing and supports the process of health and social care integration. It focuses on a Community Links project in rural Aberdeenshire, and identifies good practice in community linking, its development and spread.
Review of First Generation Participatory Budgeting in Scotland
Paper reviewing the evidence about participatory budgeting processes in Scotland up to June 2016. It examines the growth and development of the first generation of participatory budgeting in Scotland in order to generate insight to support the strategic and operational leadership and delivery of future participatory budgeting .
Reimagining Community Planning in Scotland: A Vision from the Third Sector
A working paper from What Works Scotland written by Oliver Escobar on behalf of members of third sector interfaces and Voluntary Action Scotland. The paper collates the discussions and outcomes from a two-day forum to review evidence and deliberate on the future of community planning. It contains 17 vision statements related to four themes.
Creating Effective Partnerships to Deliver Public Services seminar
This event was the launch of ‘Partnership working in UK public services’, an accessible, action-oriented evidence review produced by What Works Scotland’s Evidence Bank.