Into Work: Improving Data Collection
Into Work is a Scottish charity providing personalised employment and wellbeing support to disabled people and those with long-term health conditions. Its services include supported employment, young disabled people’s programmes, neurodiversity training for employers, peer-led support for autistic employees, income maximisation and cost of living workshops, wellbeing coaching, and counselling services. The organisation works across multiple regions, partnering with local authorities, schools, employers, and community services to create inclusive pathways into work and improve life chances.
Recognising the importance of robust data in demonstrating impact and securing funding, Into Work sought to enhance its outcomes data collection processes. The organisation wanted to ensure that its data systems could consistently capture meaningful, high-quality information across all services, enabling more effective reporting and storytelling.
The request
Into Work asked Statisticians for Society to review and strengthen its outcomes data collection processes across all services. The aim was to ensure that the data captured could effectively evidence the organisation’s impact, streamline reporting requirements, and provide the Development Lead with direct access to high-quality outcome data for funding applications.
The approach
Sayma, the S4S volunteer statistician, began the project by reviewing Into Work’s existing data collection methods, identifying gaps and inconsistencies in how outcomes were recorded. She piloted a new approach in one service, replacing a Word-based feedback form with a tailored MS Form designed to capture both quantitative and qualitative data. Her recommendations included standardising outcome questions across services, introducing a light-touch qualitative data collection process, and proposing enhancements to the organisation’s case management system. Sayma also developed a long-term impact measurement framework based on a Theory of Change, Logic Model, and Outcome Chain.
The result
Through her work, Sayma delivered a practical, scalable model for consistent outcomes data collection across all services. She designed new MS Form surveys for each service, ensuring the inclusion of three core qualitative questions essential for capturing client stories and service impact. As a result, the Development Lead now has a direct data source for compelling, evidence-based funding applications. Sayma’s recommendations for the case management system and her structured impact measurement framework position Into Work to track and demonstrate its long-term outcomes more effectively.
Impact and Benefits
The project was a resounding success. Sayma was a pleasure to work with—knowledgeable, experienced, and highly responsive to Into Work’s needs. Her work has already had a transformative effect on how Into Work collects and uses data.
The Theory of Change documents developed for each of the seven projects provide a clear and compelling narrative of how Into Work’s services lead to meaningful change. The accompanying Outcomes Chains will prove invaluable in conversations with funders, offering a transparent view of the journey from inputs to long-term impact.
Crucially, Sayma’s approach went beyond technical improvements—she recognised the importance of culture change within the organisation. Her advice emphasised the need to bring staff along on the journey, fostering a shared understanding of why data matters and how it can be used to improve services and demonstrate impact. We hope this will help to shift the culture around data collection from a compliance task to a meaningful, collaborative process.
The introduction of MS Forms for service user and frontline staff feedback—particularly the concept of a regular “pulse survey”—is a game-changer. It enables real-time insights and fosters a culture of continuous improvement. The phased rollout approach, starting with one service and gradually expanding to others, ensures that the new system is embedded thoughtfully and sustainably.
Overall, the improvements have strengthened Into Work’s ability to evidence its impact, support strategic decision-making, and secure future funding. The organisation is now better equipped to tell the story of its work and the difference it makes in the lives of disabled people.
Volunteer: Sayma Chowdhury
Into Work Project Leads: Rebecca Allen (CEO), Susan Tait (Development Lead)