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Sector Evaluation Framework

Introducing the Sector Evaluation Framework (SEF)

The SEF is a sectoral outcome measurement framework that provides a common language for social service agencies (SSAs), funders, and the Government to measure sector outcomes, track the progress of service users, and articulate impact.

2 Key Components of SEF


Getting Started: A Step-by-Step Guide

Wondering how you can begin to adopt the Sector Evaluation Framework (SEF) to conduct outcome evaluation?

Refer to the following resources, which provide step-by-step instructions involved in outcome evaluation.

The resources also include information on how NCSS will assist programmes onboard the SEF. Click on the links below to explore what each step entails:

If you are keen to learn more about the SEF or onboard your programme, please contact the team at research@ncss.gov.sg.


Choosing the Right Sector Outcome Metric

Under the SEF, NCSS recommends standardised and validated outcome metrics for programmes with similar objectives. These metrics have been statistically assessed for reliability and validity and were also chosen for their succinctness.

Programme GroupOutcome/ObjectiveMetric 
Caregiver SupportImprove management of caregiver burdenPsychometric: Zarit Burden Interview
Children & YouthImprove youth development outcomesPsychometric: ACT SG
Children in CareReduce child’s needsPsychometric: Child and Adolescent Needs and Strengths (CANS)
Early InterventionImprove child development outcomesObjective metric: Assessment scores or achievement of milestones
Employment SupportObtain employment and stay employedObjective metric: Sustained employment for a period of 3 or 6 consecutive months
Family ResilienceImprove family resiliencePsychometric: Walsh Family Resilience Questionnaire
Family SupportImprove families’ social and emotional needsPsychometric: Family and Adult Support Tool (FAST)
Family ViolenceReduce occurrence of violenceObjective metric: Occurrence of violence within a 12-month period of case closure
Marriage SupportEnsure couples remain marriedObjective metric: Couple to remain intact within 3 years of attending programme
Mental Health SupportReduce psychological distressPsychometric: Feedback Informed Treatment – Outcome Rating Scale
RecidivismReduce risk of recidivismPsychometric: Youth Level of Service/Case Management Inventory OR Level of Service/Case Management Inventory
School AbsenteeismImprove school attendanceObjective metric: Sustained school attendance for a period of 3 or 6 consecutive months
Suicide Crisis SupportReduce suicide riskPsychometric: Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS)

 

 

Please contact the team at research@ncss.gov.sg for more information about the SEF metrics, or if your SSA requires assistance in identifying an appropriate metric.