Panel studies are generally used to assess change over time. This study will involve developing a comprehensive and representative panel of third sector organisations, using the results of the mapping survey (above). Funding has been initially committed to a first round of the panel survey. It is intended that this exercise will provide the basis for repeat in future years to measure a structural change in the sector over time, if funding permits.
The panel survey will assess attitudes amongst the leaders of third sector organisations in response to wider social factors, such as trends in the economy or the political environment. The research will provide an opportunity to assess how such factors may be affecting the operation of the sector in delivering services to their beneficiaries.