Explore NAVCA’s latest research, reports and insights on local infrastructure, volunteering, communities, policy, neighbourhoods and the VCSE sector.
We welcome conversations about our reports and research. Get in touch with comms@navca.org.uk to find out more.
A fragmented jigsaw puzzle: a picture of local infrastructure funding in England
Local infrastructure organisations are supporting the VCSE sector with fragmented and short-term funding, making it difficult to build long-term relationships and financial resilience. We used Charity Commission data and member survey responses to paint a picture of the funding landscape for LIOs.
Download the report hereLocal Civil Society Infrastructure - DCMS research summary and key learning
The Department for Culture, Media and Sport published research into local civil society infrastructure (LCSI), what conditions it needs to thrive, what it does, and what outcomes and impacts it has. We summarised the research for members to use with key local stakeholders.
Download the key learning hereDownload the research summary hereWhat does good local infrastructure look like?
What makes local infrastructure effective? This publication explores the essential role local infrastructure organisations play in supporting charities, community groups and volunteers, and sets out the key characteristics of high-quality local infrastructure.
Download the report hereConnecting communities, enabling common ground
An exploration of the unique role local infrastructure organisations play in bringing people together, building relationships and creating the conditions for collaboration. The report highlights how local infrastructure strengthens communities and supports social cohesion.
Download the report hereWhy neighbourhoods matter
As public services increasingly focus on neighbourhood working, this publication examines why neighbourhoods are such important places for building relationships, understanding community needs and improving outcomes. It explores the role of the VCSE sector and local infrastructure in making neighbourhood approaches work.
Download the report hereThe voluntary sector microbiome
Many of the groups that hold communities together are small, informal and often invisible to policymakers and funders. This think piece introduces the concept of the voluntary sector microbiome, highlighting the vital contribution of grassroots community action and why it matters for thriving communities.
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