Measuring Social Outcomes and Impact

Knowing & showing that we’re making a real difference

Story Competition

Proudly Presented by

Holyoake’s DRUMBEAT program is a proven example of how a social program can evolve into a successful social enterprise to achieve better social outcomes. DRUMBEAT is much more than just an enjoyable music-based program. It is a therapeutic, evidence-based program that has been making a significant difference over the past 10 years across Australia, New Zealand and more recently in the USA. It received an award for Excellence in Community Services in 2010, and was a finalist at the National Drug and Alcohol Awards in 2009.

The drum and other rhythmic instruments have long been connected to healing in traditional societies; scientific research has validated this connection. Research also indicates that music is effective in both physiological healing and at the individual and community level*. Holyoake launched DRUMBEAT in 2003 with groups of alienated youth in WA. The outcomes were remarkable and evaluations indicated marked reductions in levels of alienation and social exclusion. Since then, the program has grown rapidly and is now active in over 500 locations in capital cities, regional centres and remote communities. It is estimated that over 3,000 people participate in the program each year.

DRUMBEAT is facilitated in schools, juvenile correction facilities, mental health services, drug and alcohol rehabilitation communities, youth centres, and immigrant support centres. Independent evaluations (www.holyoake.org.au/drumbeatevidence) of the program have shown consistent improvements in self esteem, connection to community, social competence and emotional intelligence, levels of concentration and focus, relationships with peers and adults and participation in mainstream activities.

The University of Western Australia initiated a DRUMBEAT case study in 2009 which included 180 students from 19 schools. Some of the key findings revealed: • 95% enjoyed their participation in the program • 77% believed they had increased their understanding of

relationship issues • 30% reduction in school absenteeism • 30% reduction in serious behavioural incidents

The report concluded:“While drumming per se can provide much fun and enjoyment, it is clear that the success of the Holyoake DRUMBEAT program is due to much more than this. Both the content and mode of delivery have been developed with sound consideration of evidence relating to risk factors, student learning models, group processes and behavioural outcomes.”

DRUMBEAT is also an innovative program with tremendous potential for growth. Holyoake is in the process of developing a video game and app to broaden the appeal of this program and to connect with more young people. This project successfully received a Social Innovation Grant from the Department for Communities WA in 2012. This year, Holyoake also launched DRUMBEAT Online which offers professional training and accreditation to people from other countries.

* Freidman, R.W. 2000. The Healing Power of the Drum, White Cliffs Media, Reno, Nevada

Researched by

Competition Winner