Welcome to 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.
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Latest publications
New principles for grant reporting
A group of funders and charities have developed a set of principles to make grant reporting a shared, more meaningful and mutually beneficial experience. Over the next six months, nine funders are testing these principles.
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The value of small
What is distinctive and valuable about small charities relative to their larger counterparts and public sector bodies? We found three features that set them apart, and explored current funding challenges.
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The Future for Communities
How can people in our most disadvantaged communities feel and be more powerful in the future? This report concludes an 18 month research project that heard from over 800 people.
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Blogs
14 November 2018
How to embed youth volunteering - meaningfully
Annie Caffyn
The challenges of embedding volunteering are well-documented – from the shifting sands of voluntary services to staff perceptions and the need for regular communication and support. We've collated tips and tricks from hospital volunteer coordinators.
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08 November 2018
'If not us, then who?'
Katie Turner
Senior researcher Katie Turner reflects on her conversations with small charities in Ealing, as part of research to understand what is distinctive and valuable about them relative to larger charities and public bodies.
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Learn more about IVAR