TSRC is working to enhance and develop knowledge and understanding of the third sector. Through the development of new research on third sector organisation, policy and practice, and the systematic review of existing research, we provide an invaluable resource for practitioners, policy makers and academics.

The Centre is working closely with key agencies representing the sector, through an Advisory Board and Reference Groups, and the organisation of stakeholder events. In order to provide accurate research, capable of informing policy and practice, it is vital that our research is independent and meets rigorous academic standards. Read about our approach to research.

Theory and Policy

How we think about and define issues, concepts and debates around the third sector ultimately affects policy and defines action…

Real Times

TSRC is developing a qualitative sample of organisations which will be researched on a case study basis throughout the life of the Centre. This will provide an opportunity to study the nature of change in third sector activity over time, and how organisations adapt, progress and survive…

Social Enterprise

What contribution can social enterprise make within the third sector? This research cuts across all other programmes, examining the role of policies aimed at promoting and supporting enterprise, and the contribution social enterprise can make to service provision and social inclusion…

Economic and Social Impact

Assessing the impact of third sector organisations is a key research priority for TSRC. It is linked to our mapping and measuring of the sector, and has a particular focus on the role that third sector organisations play in delivering public services and contributing to general community wellbeing...

Black and Minority Ethnic

To what extent is there a distinct BME subsector? We will undertake mapping and qualitative analysis of relevant organisations, with a particular focus on policy and practice…

Quantitative Analysis

TSRC is conducting a large-scale programme of quantitative research, using data from the charity commission and other sources. This is designed to help develop our understanding of the third sector – including its distribution, contribution, and the impact of external factors such as the economy…

Service Delivery

Third sector organisations deliver services to a wide range of potential users and beneficiaries, and have a growing role in the delivery of public sector services. Working with key policy makers and practitioners, an early priority is to identify emerging areas of policy and practice…

Below the Radar

‘Below the radar’ describes organisations that do not necessarily exist on formal registers, and are often unknown to policy-makers, funders or anyone beyond their direct beneficiaries…

Workforce and Workplace

Whilst often associated with volunteering, the third sector employs at least 700,000 workers and this number has grown significantly over time. This work stream looks at the people, the relationships and the characteristics that define third sector employment...