Local Civil Society Infrastructure research - key learning

In 2025, the Department of Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS) published the findings of research it had commissioned through its Local Civil Society Infrastructure R&D Programme. This partly drew, among other sources, on an earlier report commissioned by NAVCA from Sheffield Hallam University, Walking a Tightrope: Exploring the conditions for effective local voluntary and community sector infrastructure2, as well as carrying out new research through surveys, in-depth local case studies, and an analysis of other data. This document by NAVCA summarises the key learning, and is designed for members to use with key stakeholders.

Local Civil Society Infrastructure: a summary of the research evidence

In 2025, the Department of Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS) published the findings of research it had commissioned through its Local Civil Society Infrastructure R&D Programme. This research explores: what Local Civil Society Infrastructure is, what it does, and who provides it; what difference it makes; what strong and effective LCSI looks like – and what happens when it is weak or ineffective; the factors and conditions which enable strong LCSI – and those which weaken it. This summary by NAVCA is designed to help NAVCA members understand the research, and use it in their stakeholder engagement.

Local Civil Society Infrastructure - research presentation Canva template

This template can be used to present the findings of the DCMS LCSI research to local stakeholders. Use this Canva template to adapt to your own branding and context.

Local Civil Society Infrastructure - research presentation Powerpoint template

This template can be used to present the findings of the DCMS LCSI research to local stakeholders. Use this Powerpoint template to adapt to your own branding and context.