How we carry out our research
Our analysts are experts at charity analysis and carrying out research on social issues—digging deep into difficult issues, and finding solutions to the challenges facing charities and funders.
Our approach
When producing a report or analysing a charity, two to three different analysts—including a senior analyst and quantitative specialist—work together to guarantee that critical assessment is built into the process.
Our analysts build a detailed understanding of the issue, whether it's autism or truancy. They talk to academics, policy-makers, charities and other experts, as well as doing extensive desk research. Depending on the scope of the project, they may also analyse the effectiveness of charities which play an important role in the sector.
NPC's reports are then typically reviewed by external experts prior to publication, and disseminated via events, press and mailouts. All of our research is publicly available and free to download from our website.
What does NPC mean when we talk about an effective charity?
By ‘effectiveness’ we mean charities’ ability to improve people’s lives and create lasting change for the better.
To be effective, charities need to focus on activities that achieve a real difference, use evidence of results to improve performance, make good use of resources, and be ambitious to solve problems. This requires high quality leadership and staff, and good financial management.
Charity analysis
Read about NPC's approach to charity analysis in The little blue book, which is free to download.
What does it mean if a charity or project is not highlighted in our research?
If a charity or project is not highlighted in our research, this does not imply any criticism. Practical constraints prevent us from producing a comprehensive list of charities. However, there are a number of other ways charities can work with NPC. You can commission NPC to analyse your charity. Or we welcome charities to get in touch if they have any ideas for joint events or joint research projects.