Last year marked ten years of our State of the Sector research – the annual deep dive into the realities of voluntary organisations working in criminal justice throughout 2022-23. To gain as wide a view as possible, we drew on a mix of data sources - survey responses, in-depth interviews with organisations and charitable funders - alongside Charity Commission data. One theme rang louder than ever: the struggle of organisations to keep delivering more services and support, with fewer resources, forcing many to prioritise services based on funding rather than service user needs.
A fresh approach
This finding was not new – for several years we have heard from the sector that service user need and complexity is growing and resources are being spread thinner. While the survey has been invaluable, it can only tell us so much about the deeper impacts on staff, service users, and the communities they serve. That is why this year we have taken a new, blended approach, combining survey elements with deeper, discussion-based research. This will include a series of focus groups, giving organisations a real chance to share their stories and explore pressing issues. Our goal is to get beyond the numbers and understand the “why” behind the “what”.
We would love for you to join us! We are aiming to host around 14 focus groups, both online and in person, and we are inviting organisations from across the sector to participate. Whether you are part of a small specialist organisation or a larger service provider, your insights are invaluable. Help us shape this research and ensure that your experiences and ideas are represented in the findings.
How do I take part?
This is your chance to share what is really going on, inform future decision-making, and make sure State of the Sector 2024 reflects the voices of the whole community.
To register your interest to join a focus group, simply click the link below or scan the QR code to complete a two-minute survey. The NCVO team will get in touch with you to register your preferences and coordinate with you.
Help us to keep on supporting you, and organisations like you, and make your voice heard!
Click here to find out more and register your interest
Scan the QR code or visit https://linktr.ee/clinksstateofthesector to access more information on State of the Sector where you can also complete the survey on your mobile device. *please note - responses cannot be saved across devices.
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The role is for a leader from an organisation focused on racially minoritised people, with expertise in service delivery, policy, advocacy, or related areas in criminal justice. Racial disparities are present at every CJS stage. This role ensures these voices are central in shaping policy to help address and eradicate them. Apply by Mon 18 Nov, 10am. More info: https://www.clinks.org/voluntary-community-sector/vacancies/15566 #CriminalJustice #RR3 #RacialEquity