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Partnership Working: Lessons from the Third Sector in Wales

Partnership Working: Lessons from the Third Sector in Wales (PDF, 3.7 MB)

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Introduction

This research shares lessons from the Wales third sector about partnership working. It discusses attitudes and behaviours associated with partnership working and shares what success looks like and how common challenges can be addressed.

The report shares practical insights for funders, voluntary organisations and community groups who want to build or strengthen partnerships.

Findings

The research found that:

  • 75% of third sector respondents in Wales were favourable towards partnership working

  • the main benefits included involving communities in the project, joined-up support and services, and longer-term relationships

  • lack of capacity and time were the main challenges to partnership working – followed by complexity, conflict, risk, and trust

Most respondents (83%) who worked on a partnership project supported by The National Lottery Community Fund had a positive experience.

However, only 45% felt that the Fund provides clear expectations on partnership working and asked for improved clarity and more guidance and training.