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.
Find useful and usable insights in 90 seconds
Blogs
Summer Reading Series
Small voluntary organisations tell us what funders can do differently to make their lives easier. Watch this space for a new blog every Tuesday in August.
20 August 2019
Developing instrumental, long-term relationships
Greater Manchester Immigration Aid Unit took part in our Duty to Care? research project. We asked them about their recent experience of working with trusts and foundations.
read more
13 August 2019
Strong roots with funders make community gardens blossom
Culpeper Community Garden took part in our Duty to Care? research project. We asked them about their recent experience of working with trusts and foundations.
read more
Recently published
Start small
An exploratory study into making technology imaginable
and usable for small voluntary organisations.
Findings include tips and advice from small voluntary organisations on overcoming the barriers to using technology; pointers for support organisations; and things for funders to think about.
read more
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.
read more
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.
read more
Learn more about IVAR