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.
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Recently published
Transforming Healthcare Together
Equipping health, care and VCSE leaders to build relationships that transform our healthcare system.
A new support offer, free to access and jointly funded by NHS England and The National Lottery Community Fund. Includes online resources, workshops and coaching delivered by The King’s Fund.
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Duty to Care?
How to ensure grant-making helps and doesn’t hinder
We believe that foundations could be making adaptations to their grant-making practices in response to the circumstances and needs of small to medium voluntary organisations.
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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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Blogs
13 June 2019
Responsive grant-making needs a proactive strategy
Gilly Green | Research Associate
As part of our recent review of the Wellcome Trust’s Public Engagement Fund, we have been thinking about what it means to be a responsive grant maker.
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23 April 2019
Leadership in Philanthropy – A Newcomer's Reflections
Rebekah Goddard | Head of Learning at UK Community Foundations
Rebekah reflects on joining the world of UK Trusts and Foundations, as Head of Learning at UK Community Foundations.
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