Integral to the whole of the Study is understanding how networks develop in the third sector. We are also interested in the mechanisms by which relationships between the sector and public bodies develop and change in response to a range of factors (such as economic, political, social and cultural change).
Drawing on our stakeholder studies, panel studies and organisational studies we intend to provide a thorough and integrated analysis of the anatomy of the sector. We will study, for example, where capacity- building investment has had the greatest impact on the sector; how parts of the sector develop strong relationships and work together collectively; how the sector's activities evolve in relation to providing public services; how the sector supports beneficiary groups and has a long-term impact on building and sustaining social capital.