Welcome to the Institute for Voluntary Action Research – IVAR. We are an independent charity that works closely with people and organisations striving for social change. From the very small that directly support the most vulnerable in their local communities, to those that work nationally – across the voluntary, public and funding sectors.
We use research to develop practical responses to the challenges faced and create opportunities for people to learn from our findings. This site is home to our bank of research and resources, providing insights that can help organisations adapt to change and make informed and confident decisions.
What's new
Recently published
Response to change: How small voluntary organisations are using tech
We’ve followed the journeys of four charities responding to Covid-19 through digital, and here you’ll find tips and advice, stories of embracing digital and suggestions for how funders can support SVOs’ use of tech.
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Covid-19
Support for voluntary sector leaders and their funders
The latest information about our efforts to support voluntary organisations and their funders at this time, with links to past research that may be useful.
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Trust, power and collaboration
Shares practical suggestions for taking a ‘human learning systems’ approach to commissioning and funding relationships. Carried out in partnership with Northumbria University and the Tudor Trust the research aimed to capture the varying experiences of those adapting their practice, and identify both what is happening and what needs to change to enable different ways of working – for both VCS organisations and funders/commissioners.
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Youth volunteering in hospitals
Learning and resources from 32 NHS Trusts for those setting up or running youth volunteering programmes in hospitals.
Free resources and support for health, care and VCSE professionals
Transforming Healthcare Together
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Blogs
15 June 2021
Experimenting and learning during a crisis: A voluntary sector perspective
Dr Vita Terry
Human Learning Systems have catalysed tangible improvements in public management and Dr Vita Terry shares what the voluntary sector can learn, from advancing elements of organisational life to the three commitments needed to ensure transformation.
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03 June 2021
Having meaningful conversations about your funding approach
Bruce Warnes - Trustee & Grants Manager at The Shears Foundation
The Shears Foundation have signed up to our eight commitments for open and trusting grant-making. They join us as one of our #FlexibleFunders to share their experience of our first Community of Practice and their key takeaways – authored by Bruce Warnes, Trustee and Grants Manager.
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