As part of TSRC's aim to develop a better understanding of below-the-radar groups and activities; a workstream has been developed to investigate community activity on a micro level in two diverse urban. The work has involved searching existing databases of community organisations, narrowing the focus, literally, to a small number of streets and then “walking the patch” to find both “visible” and “hidden” community activities that may not appear on these lists. Streetwork has then been followed up with a wider sample of organisations, who have received a broader questionnaire.
The methodological difficulties encountered through this processes, however, raises issues on (at least) two fundamental levels. The first, and maybe the most pragmatic, is the nature of the organisations themselves. While is it pretty easy to draw a geographical boundary around a community on a map; it is far more difficult to create an absolute picture of that community’s third sector activity. The very nature of the sector means that gaps in data are often impossible to see. Certainly, if a researcher is informed of a group’s existence but cannot contact them, for instance, then information gaps become more visible (and often more frustrating!). Frequently however; the transitory and discrete nature of much community activity means that many “below the radar” groups remain entirely undetected.
The second issue then, is the value of micro level research itself. The questions raised from engaging in such work are endless, but let us start with these…
- Does engaging in micro level research allow an essential social sector to be understood, or is it at risk of creating inappropriate generalisations that detract from its complexity?
- To what extent can informal social organisations actually quantify their activity? Can they at best provide “adequate fit” answers suitable for academic analysis?
- How does the research process provide groups with an outlet to express a third sector presence? Might it simply elevate unrealistic expectations of policy interventions or funding opportunities?
Answers on a postcard!
Amy Burnage
Mary Somervile
Third Sector Research Centre