The evidence section of the framework underpins the outcomes triangle and logic model. It lists the sources of evidence that together best demonstrate the contribution of archives to the outcomes.
We have identified some examples of validated national evidence that demonstrate the contribution of archives to outcomes for stronger and safer communities. You may have other examples relevant to your local outcomes.
Stage three of ‘Creating your framework‘ contains a step-by-step guide to reviewing the evidence
‘Large cultural infrastructure projects’ (The National Archives, 2023)
This guidance highlights how archive services can be valuable partners in the delivery of large cultural infrastructure projects, with their collections able to inspire, inform, and enrich project programming. There are a number of success stories included that show how archives celebrate communities and create a positive legacy in local areas.
Workforce development case studies (The National Archives, various dates)
A series of case studies from across the UK, some of which focus on volunteering and feature the positive impact for archives and include a range of testimonials highlighting the benefits experienced by the volunteers themselves.
Workforce development – on the National Archives website
Making archive services more inclusive (The National Archives, various dates)
A series of case studies highlighting the impact of making collections more inclusive by improving representation of diverse communities, highlighting underrepresented voices, revealing previously hidden histories and giving them new value and meaning for people.
‘The impact of volunteering in archives‘ (Archives & Records Association, 2018)
Research highlighting the impacts of volunteering in archives and how these affect volunteers, services, and the profession. Volunteers feel the long-term effects of improved health and well-being, new and re-enforced skills and enhanced prospects of employability.
The impact of volunteering in archives – on the Archives and Records Association website
‘The Economic Impact of the UK Heritage Tourism Economy’ (Oxford Economics, 2016)
This study examines gives an indication of the scale of the gross economic impact of heritage tourism in the UK in terms of visit numbers, visit spend, employment and GDP. Then, comparisons are made with other sectors of the UK economy.
The Economic Impact of the UK Heritage Tourism Economy on the Oxford Economics website