Our Task

RealWorth was commissioned to undertake an independent evaluation of Creative Estuary Phase 2 (2023–2026), assessing how the programme contributed to Creative Estuary's strategic workstreams, the seven Arts Council England Place Partnership outcomes, and wider social and cultural change across the Thames Estuary.

We combined Theory of Change workshops, programme monitoring data, stakeholder surveys, interviews, focus groups, video diaries and detailed case studies to understand both the scale of delivery and the depth of impact experienced by different stakeholder groups. Though analysis of Creative Estuary's core programmes and partnerships, we found evidence of how activity had strengthened creative practice, collaboration, place-making and regional visibility. To ensure a comprehensive and inclusive evaluation, we prioritised engaging with as many stakeholders as possible. From the Creative Estuary Programme Team and sector leads to local artists, businesses, educators, and community members, we have actively sought diverse perspectives.

RealWorth applied a Social Return on Investment methodology to quantify the wider social value generated through grants, commissions, skills development and partnership activity, providing robust evidence to support future investment, strategic planning and the continued development of the Thames Estuary's creative ecosystem.