Key things to consider when developing outcomes

Think about the 'Golden Thread'

• There should be a Golden Thread directly through the aspirations, needs, outcomes and provision. 
• This can be achieved by thinking about outcomes as steps on the journey toward aspirations. 

Outcomes should be holistic

• This will mean that often a multi-agency approach will be required to support the young person to achieve their outcomes. 
• The provision section should clearly set out what each agency is doing to achieve the outcome. 

Make outcomes SMART

• If SMART is used the purpose of the outcome will be clear. Everyone will know when the outcomes should be achieved, and when it has been achieved. 

Outcomes must be person-centred

• They should be specific to the young person and expressed from a personal perspective, not a service one. 

Outcomes are not provision

Don't mix outcomes and provision with each other. Provision is what must be provided to meet a young person's needs, and enable the outcomes to be achieved. 

Outcomes should support aspirations and set high expectations

• In order to develop aspirations for life young people and their families need opportunities to find out what is possible, and what type of support would help them achieve their aspirations. 
• This includes learning from young people and their families about what has worked for them. 
• They should build on what is working well and address what is not working well for them. 

Supported by cultural change

• Changes in ways of working, relationships and different conversations are needed. 
• Provide advice, training and coaching that support the development of outcomes. 
• Develop guidance notes and tools that help staff develop clear, person-centred approaches which lead to positive outcomes. 
• Support the young person and their family to be central to the development of the outcome. 
• The outcome must be shared (by the young person, their family and professionals). To do this they need to be developed using a person-centred approach. 

Make use of existing resources

• Resources and materials should be shared to support the development of outcomes. Start with the SEND Code of Practice, chapter 9. 
• Make use of other resources developed nationally and locally. Section 5 includes some further resources you can use.