The Northern Rock Foundation Third Sector Trends study has been running since 2008.  A new report has been published on the situation of Third Sector organisations in Cumbria.  The report considers the size of the sector, the scope of its work and the benefit brought to the area over the last six years. The research underpinning this report was jointly funded by Cumbria Community Foundation.

The report also considers the extent to which the sector has responded to challenges produced by a long period of austerity.  For many charities, the report shows, a measure of stability has been enjoyed in spite of government austerity programmes.  However, small to medium sized charities operating in the poorest areas of Cumbria have been much more likely to suffer loss of income  due to cuts in government spending at national, regional and local level.  The report can be read here: Third Sector Trends in Cumbria (November 2015)

Headline findings from the report will be presented at The Forum, Barrow in Furness on 5th November by Professor Tony Chapman at the Cumbria Council for Voluntary Services Annual General Meeting.