The Centre for Social and Health Research have published an influential report on the State of the VCSE Sector, a cross-Greater Manchester report on the contribution of the voluntary, community and social enterprise sector to our city-region.
Using realist evaluation methods, the report provides clear data and evidence: that the VCSE sector makes a significant contribution to our city-region – preventing need, reducing hardship, supporting those in crisis and driving social value. A particular focus on the sector’s response to COVID-19 highlighted the VCSE sector as a key player in revitalising and rekindling social and economic activity following the pandemic. Many organisations have adapted to new forms of work, mobilised increasing numbers of volunteers and developed creative solutions to the challenges of the pandemic.
The report was authored by a team of researchers from across the Centre for Social and Health Research, Dr Michelle Howarth, Phil Martin, Dr Graeme Sherriff, Dr Paul Hepburn and Roze Witkam.
Read the briefing paper and the full report.