Evaluation of the Building Connections Fund Prior to the Covid-19 Pandemic: Part One

Introduction

This research examines the first phase of the Building Connections Fund (BCF) which we co-funded with government and the Co-Op Foundation. The fund aimed to reduce loneliness and social isolation across England. It supported voluntary and community organisations to run local projects. This report shares early learning to inform future funding and programme development.

Findings

This report provides a snapshot of how the BCF was working before the evaluation and service delivery were interrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic. This means the findings are based on a small sample. The research found early signs that projects helped people feel less lonely and more connected. Many organisations reached people who were isolated or facing barriers to engaging in community life.

The research found that:

• grant holders successfully engaged people who were lonelier than the national average

• levels of loneliness were higher for children and young adults than for middle aged adults, and higher for women than for men

• people taking part had a positive experience, trusted others and felt respected during activities

• trusting staff and volunteers, believing change is possible, and feeling safe were 3 key things that helped services reduce loneliness

• organisations reported high demand and pressures on capacity. Early learning highlighted the importance of collaboration and clear local coordination