The SOUL (Soft Outcomes Universal Learning) Record is an effective method of measuring soft outcomes / informal learning in a way which benefits the client. It is useful for the client to help them to see the progress they are making, the worker as an ice breaker and a diagnostic tool; identifying where a client or learner may need some extra help or support, and for an organisation in providing evidence of the fantastic work being undertaken with their clients.

This is for YOU if ...

• you regularly achieve increases in soft outcomes / informal learning (e.g. confidence, self-esteem, motivation etc) with your clients or learners
• you are required to prove this with hard evidence for the benefit of management, funder or local government
• your organisation would benefit by having a way to measure the progress your clients or learners are making in soft outcomes / informal learning
• you, your staff, or volunteers are interested in using a system as a diagnostic tool, pinpointing exactly where a client or learner may need some extra help or support
• you are interested in improving your service.

Content ...

• the origins and history of SOUL Soft outcomes - what are they?
• the SOUL Record
• how to use and analyse questionnaires, worksheets and observations to evidence progression
• how to summarise your results for funders
• spreadsheets results package

By the end of this workshop you will ...

• understand how to use the SOUL record from start to finish
• be able to select from a menu of questionnaires, worksheets and observation sheets the resources best suited to an individuals service users needs
• know how to evidence progression
• be able to collate your results and display them graphically, providing valuable information for funders.

Positive Feedback ...

Comments from the Soft Outcomes Universal Learning training held on 29 June 2007:

• Very informative session full of useful material and information that I can take back and implement withing my project
• This will be a great benefit when seeking funding and will be a good asset in reducing time and workload
• I will feel more confident in how to use SOUL with practice but feel it will be a very effective tool for measuring distance travelled by the young people I work with  - Thank you
• Thoroughly enjoyed the day, workshop was delivered clearly in a relaxed manner, I felt happy to ask questions
• Excellent training delivered in an interesting and informative way. Hope that we can use a majority of the SOUL record
• A lot to take in, but a very good informative workshop. Excellent materials and trainer, looking forward to using SOUL and getting more funds!

Trainer

This one day course will be led by Jenny Allthorpe, Training & Development Officer with Voluntary and Community Action South Bedfordshire, who has recently undertaken training to deliver the SOUL Record training.

Venue

The workshop will be held at Bossard House, West Street, Leighton Buzzard, LU7 1DA. This venue is fully accessible. Parking is available in a pay and display car park nearby.

Access and Individual Requirements

If you have any specific individual requirements to enable you to attend this event please let us know. Every effort is made to meet individual requirements, which might include; a loop system, sign language interpreter, wheelchair access, handouts in large print or special dietary requirements.

Refreshments, and a buffet lunch, with vegetarian options will be provided.