11 August 2025
Theory of change
At Frontline, our mission is to make life better for children at risk of harm by improving the services that support them. Our theory of change explains how the work we do helps us achieve this goal.
You can read our theory of change from left to right. On the left we have the challenges which motivate our work. In the middle we show what we do as a charity. Finally on the right you can see what we aim to achieve: the outcomes and social change that we see from our work.
| Challenges | What we do | Changes we create | Outcomes of these changes | Long term impact | Goal |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Not enough children at risk of harm receive the support they need. Outcomes for children at risk of harm are not good enough. | We develop great practice in the sector. We develop excellent leadership. We support innovation and systems change. We advocate for children at risk of harm and the professionals who support them. | Professionals have consistently high standards of practice throughout England. Professionals are empowered to do their best work and put children first. Professionals take a proactive approach to doing things differently. Decision makers and the public see the value of children’s social work and aligned professions. | Children and families get the high quality support they need. Less outcome disparities between different locations and minority groups. Professionals stay longer in the profession and good leaders are supported to progress. The sector receives adequate support and funding from government. | More children are protected from harm and have a safe and stable home. Better outcomes for children at risk of harm. | Life is better for children at risk of harm. |
What is a theory of change?
A theory of change shows how we expect our work will make change happen. It shows both our long-term goal and the steps we need to take to achieve that goal. We use our theory of change as a guide to help us check whether our work is delivering the overall long-term aims of our charity. It also helps us determine whether our actions are having a real impact.
-
-
6 August 2025Approach Social Work
What I’ve learned on Approach Social Work after one year
-
15 May 2025Approach Social Work
A father’s perspective: a social worker’s support