Abstract
Improvements in “wellbeing” are frequently cited as the ultimate objective of “development”. Efforts to operationalise wellbeing quickly turn to discussions of definition, assessment, and measurement. This article describes Traidcraft Exchange’s ten-year work to assess changes in wellbeing resulting from their interventions. We outline the conceptual model Traidcraft adopted, how it was adapted, and how it has delivered on core promises of wellbeing. We explore how differing priorities influenced implementation and results. An explicit focus on wellbeing promises more complete information and positive, empowering, person-centred “development”. Achieving both ambitions requires clear objectives and has implications for the methods and processes used.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 694-705 |
| Number of pages | 12 |
| Journal | Development in Practice |
| Volume | 32 |
| Issue number | 5 |
| Early online date | 20 Jan 2022 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 31 Dec 2022 |
| Externally published | Yes |
Bibliographical note
Funding Information:This article is based on an internal report produced for Traidcraft Exchange (TX) as part of a PhD in International Development at the University of Edinburgh. The research used a case study approach and draws on document analysis and in-depth interviews with TX staff, consultants, and ex-staff in the UK and overseas; academics associated with the WPP team; and TX partner staff. This was supported by analysis of survey reports, evaluations, reviews, annual reports, and accounts. It also draws on “Traidcraft: assessing human flourishing” (Spencer, Williams, and Stevens ). Findings were discussed in a group verification session with senior Traidcraft programme staff. The research gathered only limited information from staff of partner organisations, and no information from project participants. This is acknowledged as a limitation.
Funding
This article is based on an internal report produced for Traidcraft Exchange (TX) as part of a PhD in International Development at the University of Edinburgh. The research used a case study approach and draws on document analysis and in-depth interviews with TX staff, consultants, and ex-staff in the UK and overseas; academics associated with the WPP team; and TX partner staff. This was supported by analysis of survey reports, evaluations, reviews, annual reports, and accounts. It also draws on “Traidcraft: assessing human flourishing” (Spencer, Williams, and Stevens ). Findings were discussed in a group verification session with senior Traidcraft programme staff. The research gathered only limited information from staff of partner organisations, and no information from project participants. This is acknowledged as a limitation.
Keywords
- decolonising aid
- INGOs
- monitoring evaluation and learning (MEL)
- person-centred development
- Wellbeing
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Geography, Planning and Development
- Development