Earlier this year, Lighthouse engaged Social Ventures Australia (SVA) to evaluate the social value and impact created by our organisation, our programs and our initiatives.

During March, April and May 2023, the SVA team collected extensive qualitative and quantitative data through interviews, surveys and document reviews. The findings were analysed against the Australian Research Alliance for Children and Youth (ARACY) ‘Nest Wellbeing Framework’ and the Lighthouse ‘Theory of Change’ criteria.

Key findings

• There is a renewed sense of Lighthouse’s value and place within the community and as the only place-based collective impact backbone.
• Lighthouse has developed a unique ability to respond rapidly to community needs using a value driven approach.
• Children and young people have a strong sense of feeling loved, valued, and safe as a result of being engaged in Lighthouse initiatives.
• Families are more connected to the community because of their engagement in Lighthouse initiatives.
• Community recognise Lighthouse as genuinely listening to, understanding and acting to address their needs.
• Partners believe they are actively contributing to improving outcomes for children young people and community.

Key recommendations

• There were 4 key recommendations related to Lighthouse’s role in the community and 4 related to the operation of Lighthouse.
• The recommendations related to the role of Lighthouse were about clarifying Lighthouse’s contribution to early years, emergency response and as a backbone organisation and strengthening Lighthouse’s advocacy for vulnerable communities.
• The recommendations related to the operation of Lighthouse were about strengthening measurement and evidence of value and impact, communicating the strategic approach to partnerships and continuing to increase the diversity of representation at Lighthouse.

The SVA Evaluation Report will inform both our Strategy for 2024 and the development of Department Education workplan.

To read the full report and the executive summary click on the links below.