New Scots Refugee Integration Delivery Project: funded projects analysis

Methodology

Data compilation and download process

The initial phase of the analysis involved the compilation and extraction of the monitoring and evaluation data, which had been systematically collected and stored on the Salesforce platform. This data comprised all of the information submitted by projects from their initial application to what they had submitted in their monitoring reports.

Data segmentation

The raw data was organised into segments corresponding to reporting quarters and thematic areas. Each segment was labelled and stored as separate sheets within the master Excel file, ensuring ease of access and clarity for further analysis.

Thematic analysis

Analysts from the Scottish Government split and examined the data through the lens of specific categorical areas derived from the design of the projects and the monitoring report questions, these were:

• Successes
• Challenges and risks
• Partnership working
• Innovation
• Spreading good practice
• Refugee involvement and participation
• Reaching target groups
• Lasting impact
• Feedback from projects and participants

Each thematic area was assigned to specific analysts to ensure a focused review and minimise overlap however once analysis was complete the findings were reviewed as a team. The analysts employed a qualitative thematic analysis approach, using Excel functions to sort, filter, and categorise qualitative data under each theme. This approach enabled the identification and extraction of significant qualitative comments, observations, and responses relevant to each thematic area.

Identification of common themes

The core of the thematic analysis involved the identification of common themes and patterns across the various projects. This was achieved through a systematic review of qualitative data within each thematic area. Analysts tagged and coded qualitative entries to highlight recurring motifs, sentiments, and perspectives. The frequency of these themes was quantified to assess prevalence and significance across different projects and reporting periods.

Comparative analysis

Following the identification of common themes, a comparative analysis was conducted to elucidate similarities and differences in experiences, outcomes, and perceptions across all projects. This comparative perspective was instrumental in understanding the broader impact and effectiveness of the initiatives under review.

Presentation of findings

The refined and synthesised data is presented in this report according to the thematic categories identified. Each category is discussed in detail, supported by quantitative data and representative qualitative excerpts that illustrate key points and provide real-world context. This structured presentation not only highlights the outcomes and impacts across the thematic areas but should also provide a clear and comprehensive overview of the data-driven insights obtained through our monitoring and evaluation process.