Working with Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust
Background
Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust (MFT) joined CORC in 2024 to strengthen their approach to outcome measurement and to better understand, analyse, and use their data to inform practice. Using the CORC Best Practice Framework, along with tailored support in data analysis and reporting, MFT has made progress in embedding outcome-focused practice. Below, we share their outcomes journey so far.
The approach
MFT took a structured and reflective approach to improving the use of outcome measures, supported by their Regional Improvement Officer:
- MFT completed a self-assessment using the CORC Best Practice Framework across four key domains: leadership and management, staff development, information management, and service user engagement. This was used to begin development of an action plan.
- Teams identified ROMs (routine outcome measurement) Champions to support colleagues in using outcome measures effectively, promote best practice, and contribute to ongoing development. Champions meet regularly to support the implementation of the action plan.
- Staff completed the CORC Staff Practice and Attitudes survey in 2024 to share their insights and perspectives on implementation, training and use of measures. Improving the accessibility and presentation of data to support staff’s use of measures in practice was identified as a priority for the service.
- Staff attended CORC training webinars as part of membership. We also delivered a tailored session on specific tools and adapting practice to cultural need as part of MFT’s focus on reducing inequalities.
Using data
CORC also worked closely with MFT’s Data and Power BI lead to explore approaches to analysing outcomes data, including discussion of the strengths and limitations of reliable change analysis. This collaboration supported the development of a Power BI outcomes dashboard, implemented to enable more accessible and meaningful use of data.
In November 2025, CORC produced a report analysing change across five key measures between 2023 and 2025. These developments have helped MFT move towards a more data-informed approach to service delivery and evaluation.
Impact
Staff completed the CORC Practice and Attitudes survey again in 2026 and findings demonstrate the progress made at MFT:
- 70% of respondents reported using outcome measures ‘nearly all of the time’, representing a 10% increase from 2024.
- Staff reported improved ability to access previous session results, supporting better continuity of care and clinical decision-making.
- The Power BI dashboard is now actively used to: track progress over time; visualise change over time within sessions; communicate change in discharge letters; review overall service impact.
Survey findings were shared widely, including at the CAMHS Leadership Away Day in June 2026, helping to reinforce organisational commitment to outcome-focused practice.
Next steps
MFT continue to embed the Power BI dashboard into staff practice and aim to further develop participation and service user engagement, in alignment with the Patient and Carer Race Equality Framework.
To find out more about membership, please get in touch.