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Capacitybuilders third survey - June 2010

6/30/2010

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Capacitybuilders third survey

Survey findings released today show that demand from frontline groups is continuing to increase, while more support providers report a reduction in their income. Nearly half of all support providers stated that they are continuing to cope well. However, increasing numbers are planning merger or staff cuts.

Key findings of the survey include:

  • Demand for support from frontline groups continues to increase (according to 78% of respondents);
  • For the third survey running, more support providers have reported a reduction in their overall income for the previous 12 months (40%) – than those that have seen their income rise (34%);
  • Despite this increase in demand and pressure on income, nearly half of all respondents stated that they are coping well (46%);
  • Increasing numbers of support providers are now planning merger - up from 1 in 7 to 1 in 5 over the last 12 months;
  • A similar proportion are planning to cut staff numbers (20%).

Matt Leach, Capacitybuilders’ Chief Executive commented:

“Local support providers have a key role to play in delivering the Big Society. They are often the first place frontline groups go to for help in starting and running a community-based voluntary activity or enterprise, and they are an important source of support and advice when times are tough.

Our latest survey shows that support providers are continuing to cope well with high levels of demand for their services. But many are expecting pressure on funding to continue into the medium term and increasing numbers are looking at merger as a means of reducing costs whilst maintaining services to frontline groups.”

This survey was conducted in April – May 2010. It is the third in a series of surveys commissioned by Capacitybuilders and is conducted at regular intervals to gather intelligence on how organisations that support the Civil Society affected during a period of considerable change and challenge.

Please download a copy of Survey 3 - June 2010. 

The other two survey reports are available here:

Survey 1 - July 2009

Survey 2 - November 2009.