Creating a logic model

What is a logic model?

A logic model is a graphic which shows how a targeted support programme or intervention will work. It covers both ‘why’ targeted support may be needed, as well as the expected short and long-term outcomes.

Why is it useful?

Creating a logic model can be helpful for thinking through all the steps of a mental health and wellbeing targeted support programme. It allows you to test out the coherence of your thinking and planning.

A logic model also offers a basis on which to monitor and review targeted support. You can plan this upfront by considering how you will be able to measure whether short, medium or long-term outcomes are achieved. Monitoring will allow you:

• keep under review whether you are successful in recruiting and engaging the intended target group
• understand whether the resources and approach you planned are delivered as originally intended
• assess where risks are posed to the planned model.

How do I make a logic model?

It can be helpful to complete the different sections in the logic model in this order:

• Why: Summarising the situation in the school or college that calls for action – this will be based on an understanding of the needs and strengths of young people, and the gaps and opportunities for improving or adding to the support structures currently in place.
• Who: Arising from your ‘why’, which group do you want to support change for? If there is more than one group, you may find it helpful to have more than one logic model. Set out the specific characteristics you would use to identify them (e.g., age, gender, nature or level of difficulty, particular life experiences or personal or family circumstances)
• How: This is the approach you will adopt. Set out here the practical restraints or requirements influencing this, for example the financial or human resources available.
• Outcomes and impact: What is the ultimate change that you want to see (the primary or long-term outcome?) Can your target group be helped on the way to that change through some short- or medium-term changes? For example these might be changes to behaviours, skills, knowledge, attitudes or awareness that you hypothesise (based on evidence or professional knowledge and experience) are likely to lead to the primary outcome.
• Moderators and assumptions: Consider in advance what might facilitate or change you delivering the intervention as planned, and achieving the outcome you intend. Make explicit any assumptions that underpin your plan.