Evidence is factual information that supports a particular claim, belief, or theory (NSW Government, 2022). In the case of human services, evidence is information that tells us about the usefulness of a particular activity, practice or service. Evidence takes several forms and comes from a variety of sources.

There are three main types of evidence, which are distinct but often overlap in practice:

1. Research Evidence: Academic research, usually from universities or research institutions, predominantly published in scientific journals.
2. Contextual Evidence: Information, often held by organisations, that helps apply specific information in specific situations. For example, surveys of the local community, or administrative data about what demographics of people an organisation is servicing.
3. Experiential Evidence: Comes from experience and professional expertise, skills, and practice knowledge (Puddy & Wilkins, 2011). This includes the lived experience and knowledge of the people with whom you practice.
   
   

All three categories of evidence hold value for social service organisations.