Situational Mapping

Situational mapping is one of the key steps of a continual journey towards effectively serving children at risk and those who work with them. The documentation and analysis that are produced puts essential knowledge into the hands of the Christian community, resulting in work that is well informed and properly structured.

The task is immense, but as more data is gathered and more cities are mapped the potential of the Christian community to reach a greater number of children with a higher quality of care will be realised. The information gathered from situational mapping is used in several areas of Viva's work:

• It forms the basis for "The Viva Report – The State of the World's Christian Work with Children at Risk". This annual publication reflects what we currently know about the people and projects working towards building a broader and more connected response to the world’s homeless, hungry, and hurting children.
• Leaders and decision-makers analyse the data, using it to inform their advice and decisions. It is helpful for advocacy, as it highlights areas where too little is done or where there is a failure to work together despite extensive outreach.
• Staff and workers find it an essential tool. The figures can be used to produce a directory of responders for a particular area, providing the first step towards connecting and equipping the Christian response in that locality.
• The data set is also used to offer a bespoke tailored reporting service for larger organisations, which can assist them with understanding the local situation and locating potential strategic partners as they look to expand and progress their ministry.