The first element of the study is about developing reliable estimates of the numbers, scale and scope of third sector organisations in the region. This will involve:
The researchers will conduct surveys designed to provide a basic profile of unincorporated organisations (which do not feature on national registers), and there will be analyses of large-scale datasets on volunteers, workforce (e.g. the Citizenship Survey, the Labour Force surveys) and the Guidestar database. Using these data, the researchers will build a reliable picture of the total scale and geographical distribution of organisations and their resources in the region. This part of the study will be carried out by the consortium led by Professor John Mohan.
For the second element of the study mixes quantitative and qualitative methods, the researchers will structure a representative panel of VCS organisations, in line with the results of the mapping survey, from whom evidence will be gathered about the dynamics of third sector organisations in response to external factors, such as trends in the economic and political environment. Other qualitative components for assessing sector dynamics include a study of stakeholder perceptions of trends in third sector development, and an exploration of the formation, strength, influence and benefit of third sector networks. This part of the study will be led by Professor Tony Chapman of the University of Teesside.
Throughout the study, the research team will review relevant policy interventions at regional, national and international levels.
The Foundation and the research team will ensure the engagement of key stakeholders and knowledge transfer to a wide range of users through events, publications and web resources. The researchers will also contribute to academic journals, conferences etc.
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