Every project we do is shaped by the people it’s for.

Projects

All of our research and evaluation projects are unique, responding to the needs of our clients as well as the people and communities we involve. Have a look at our portfolio below to get an idea of our approach, and the diversity of projects we have delivered.

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Energise Manchester

Through our evaluation of Energise Manchester, a pilot action research project funded by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, we have seen how working with trusted community networks empowers residents, builds trust, and makes energy-saving advice and practical improvements accessible to all.

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Culture, Health Rowena Hay Culture, Health Rowena Hay

Singing Mamas at Home

Through our evaluation of Singing Mamas at Home, we’ve seen how singing on prescription can boost mothers’ confidence, wellbeing, and sense of connection, while providing an accessible tool for healthcare staff and women in the early weeks and months of motherhood.

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Environment Rowena Hay Environment Rowena Hay

DLUHC Design Codes Evaluation

We worked with the Design Council, DLUHC and the Office for Place to evaluate the Design Code Pathfinder Programme, producing a detailed evaluation report, practical roadmap and case studies to guide others through setting up, developing and implementing local design codes.

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Design Council Impact Framework

Shortwork collaborated with the Design Council to design an overarching impact framework and toolkit, consolidating monitoring and evaluation across the organisation. The framework supports reflection, learning, and evidence-based decision-making while enabling flexibility for project-specific evaluation.

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Network Rail Design Academy

Through our work with the Design Council and Network Rail, we’ve seen how reflection, collaboration, and design-led learning can equip engineers and project managers to create a more inclusive, sustainable, and passenger-focused railway.

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Environment Rowena Hay Environment Rowena Hay

ExploreStation Impact Evaluation

We evaluated ExploreStation, Network Rail’s largest-ever public engagement and co-design programme. Led by the Design Council with partners Commonplace, Digital Urban, and The Glass-House, it engaged over 29,000 people across Britain to shape the new HUB Station design. Our evaluation captured the impact, learning, and legacy of this groundbreaking approach to national infrastructure engagement.

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Culture, Health Rowena Hay Culture, Health Rowena Hay

Intergenerational Music and Movement Pilot

In summer 2019, Holistic Harmonies ran a six-week pilot in a Liverpool nursing home, bringing together residents, pre-school children, and their parents in inclusive music and movement sessions. Our evaluation highlighted benefits for all ages, from increased movement and confidence to joy, togetherness, and community connection.

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Within Reach Impact Evaluation

Our evaluation of Sheffield’s disability sport programme, funded by Sport England and delivered by Within Reach and Sheffield City Council, explored the benefits for participants, families, and volunteers, identified barriers to inclusion, and offered recommendations to sustain and grow opportunities across the city.

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