Researchers from AP University of Applied Sciences and Arts, Karel de Grote University of Applied Sciences, and the University of Antwerp conduct a series of social impact evaluations of social projects commissioned by the City of Antwerp. Each year, a number of cases are selected for in‑depth examination.
The first objective of the project is to assess, across different fields of social work, the extent to which concrete service-oriented projects in Antwerp achieve their intended effects. In doing so, the researchers also identify the mechanisms that help explain these results, as well as the contextual conditions that play a crucial role in shaping outcomes.
A second objective is to build on existing academic literature, practice-based knowledge, and the registration systems already used by the city and its partners. This ensures that the evaluations are grounded in both scientific insight and the practical realities of service provision.
Finally, the project aims to develop theoretical and practical tools for evaluation and registration within these and similar social work practices. These tools are created on the basis of the experience accumulated throughout the evaluation process and are intended to support future monitoring and learning.
