Developing, implementing and evaluating our programs.
For example, after being part of a batyr program there are immediate outcomes for young people such as new knowledge about mental health. These then develop into medium term outcomes such as shifts in attitudes like less stigma towards people with mental ill-health, or shifts in behaviour like reaching out for help early. And these develop into long term outcomes that go beyond just individual young people, and create change at a community and system level.
The Theory of Change is a map for how we measure our impact, with each outcome linked to specific measurement tools that help us understand whether we are creating the right outcomes. What we learn informs the development of our programs and activities so we can continue to improve our work and have long term impact.
The Theory of Change was developed with the understanding that batyr is part of a larger ecosystem of supports around a young person. Through our unique perspective and approach we are contributing to the larger project of reducing youth suicides and improving mental health outcomes for all young people.
We also hear directly from young people through focus groups, consultations and one on one conversations. These methods help us understand outcomes such as shifts in stigmatised attitudes and increases in intentions to seek help. Looking at how young people are responding to our programs, what they are learning, and how they are growing, these efforts continue to inform everything we do so we create even greater impact into the future.