Research
There are acknowledged gaps in the existing information about the BME Third Sector which prevent a comprehensive national picture being drawn. This is in turn diminishes the voice of the sector and the role it can play in building a cohesive civil society in the future.Voice4Change England recognised that such gap needs bridging first and foremost, before we set our goals to influence public policy development for better outcomes for BME organisations and communities. The BME Third Sector needed an ‘evidence base’ to lobby the government and other policy makers to recognise the significant role that the Sector plays in social and economic development of BME communities.
‘Bridge the Gap: what is known about the BME Third Sector in England’ is a summary of findings and recommendations of a thorough research project that Voice4Change England has recently undertaken. It gives a comprehensive picture of the state and size of the BME Third Sector regionally and nationally; identifies gaps in this information and put forwards recommendations to address these gaps.
Voice4Change England also aims to develop a Research Programme which will be informed by its strategic priorities set in ‘Building a Thriving BME Third Sector: Declaration of Intent’. Voice4Change England’s future Publications will include evidence-based research on various issues related to the characteristics and contribution of the BME Third Sector organisations in England.
Voice4Change England plans to share findings of its research – especially ‘Bridge the Gap: what is known about the BME Third Sector in England’ with key government bodies and other third sector stakeholders. The aim is to Lobby these agencies, on behalf of the BME Third Sector, to respond to the recommendations presented by the report to bridge the gaps that exist in information on the BME Third Sector.
For more information contact Arjumand Kazmi, Head of Policy at arjumand@voice4change-england.co.uk.