Program Self-Assessment Tools & Identification of Needed Training and TA

There are many ways to measure program success in provision of services to survivors of domestic violence. Close attention must be given to what is being assessed and whether the results support program activities in achieving the best results for survivors, their children, and the staff of the agency. This section will provide information and resources on three types of self-assessment tools: satisfaction surveys, employee evaluation, and general functionality.

Satisfaction Survey.  This information should be gathered anonymously and is often solicited at the end of the survivor’s stay in shelter or at the completion of a service; best practice would also include surveying survivors at regular intervals during their stay or engagement with the program. Tools in this section will measure survivor satisfaction with the program and how well those services were delivered in accordance with trauma-informed practices.

Employee Evaluation. Employee evaluations are typically done 90 days after hire, then annually thereafter, and provide important feedback to the employee and about the agency overall. Routine evaluation of staff provides feedback on employee growth, training needs, potential for leadership, areas of weakness, and obstacles to job or team performance. Ensuring that advocates are functioning properly within their areas of expertise is a key asset to any domestic violence program and supports the agency in meeting its obligations to survivors and their children, the general public, community partners, and program funders.

General Functionality. This assessment is designed to ask questions about each aspect of the agency, at all levels of the agency. Some components may be easily addressed, such as organizational documentation and accounting practices, while other aspects may take significantly longer to determine how well the agency is responding, such as with crisis calls, effective safety planning, comprehensive referrals, community partnerships, and the like. General functionality self-assessments often create critical dialogues within the agency about how services are being provided and can help the agency identify how well best practices and federal laws and regulations are being implemented. Agencies can also then identify where additional support, training, or information is needed. 

Links to resources, webinars, and other materials are provided to assist programs in their self-assessment journey. This process is meant to help identify areas of strengths and areas where more support may be needed. Discussing agency findings with neighboring programs and state coalition advocates can help uncover opportunities for learning and program development.