NCVO has today launched a research project which looks into the effects of recent welfare reforms on charities and their beneficiaries.

The project will last a year and look to assess the effectiveness of recent welfare reforms and identify the impacts they have had. From the projects results, NCVO will create resources to help charities to understand multiple welfare changes.

Charlotte Ravenscroft (pictured), head of policy and research at NCVO, said: “Many charities have long called for reform of the welfare system, but the reality of recent changes has been difficult for some of the people they support. In particular, some groups have had to deal with multiple changes simultaneously.

“This research aims to identify strengths and weaknesses in the current programme of welfare reform in order to best inform any future changes."

NCVO are calling for evidence from charities on the effect reforms have had on their beneficiaries and the ways in which charities have changed the support they provide.

The research will also present examples of how charities are adjusting to changing demands, as well as providing a platform to share examples of best practice.  

Ravenscroft added: “Charities have direct experience of providing advice and support to people affected by changes to social security and are well placed to provide feedback on what works and what doesn’t.”

Charities can participate in NCVO’s call for evidence until 31 March by filling in the questionnaire.