For many years, PPNs have heard and witnessed the growing pressures on the community and voluntary sector. The network has consistently advocated on behalf of the sector, but success has been limited – in part due to a lack of solid evidence with regard to the direct impact of these challenges on the operation of community organisations. Under the Power to Change initiative, Sligo PPN have partnered with Atlantic Technological University to undertake a piece of research to form a solid evidence base on the key challenges facing the sector and what this means to grass roots community activity and volunteering.

This survey aims to collect the evidence needed to highlight and stress to Government the challenges faced by community groups. It also aims to demonstrate that additional and better coordinated supports are needed for groups to operate successfully and thrive. More and more is being asked of the community sector, including taking a leading role on climate action. What support does the community sector need to make this workable?

The survey was co-designed with community organisations as well as colleagues across the PPN network.

While led by Sligo PPN and ATU under the Power to Change initiative, this research is intended to be of benefit to the entire PPN network and the broader community sector. The survey will go out across the entire PPN national network as well as other key community based networks. The more feedback we receive, the stronger our case will be for advocating for positive change in the sector.

Every response we get is vital and we thank you in advance for taking the time to contribute to this important research. Please feel free to share far and wide.

To complete the survey go to:

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/NHFCGGT