Third Sector Experiences of Work Programme Delivery

Abstract

This paper explores third sector organisational experiences of governmental policy change and implementation. Using a four-year longitudinal study of 13 third sector organisations (TSOs), it provides evidence based on the experiences of, and effects on, third sector organisations involved in the UK's Work Programme in Scotland. The paper explores third sector experiences of the Work Programme during the preparation and introductory phase, as well as the effects of subsequent Work Programme implementation. By gathering evidence contemporaneously and longitudinally a unique in-depth analysis is provided of the introduction and implementation of a major new policy. The resource cost and the challenges to third sector ways of working, for the organisations in the Work Programme supply chain, as well as those not in the supply chain, are considered. The paper considers some of the responses adopted by the third sector to manage the opportunities and challenges presented to them through the implementation of the Work Programme. The paper also reflects on the broader context of the employability services landscape and raises questions as to whether, as a result of the manner in which the Work Programme was contracted, there is evidence of a move towards service homogenisation, challenging perceived TSO characteristics of service innovation and personalisation.

Marginal Players? The Third Sector and Employability Services for Migrants, Refugees and Asylum Seekers in the UK

“…Not only have austerity measures impacted upon potential partners in local government more acutely (Lowndes and McCaughie 2013 ) but they have also affected the relationship between the UK Government and TSOs. The commissioning procedures raise barriers for the involvement of TSOs, favouring private for-profit companies or larger and well-established organisations instead of smaller, grassroots oriented organisations (Egdell et al 2016 ). Providing services for the UK Government (such as the Home Office department) does not come without tension and the reputational risk of receiving funds or negotiating objectives with a UK Government which has consistently demonstrated its concern for border control rather than integration (Walters 2004 ; Squire 2017 ).…”

“…This can also be identified in the provision of employability services. For example, literature in the field of employability and the third sector has focused upon the impact of marketisation on third sector providers (Zimmermann et al 2014 ), elaborating how commissioning processes have led to a contraction of (smaller) TSOs and an expansion of larger private sector bodies (Egdell et al 2016 ). These organisations have also been required to tailor their services and activities to meet the needs of public funders and this has generated challenges to provide added value such as service innovation and community engagement (Lindsay et al 2014 ).…”

Capabilities and Choices of Vulnerable, Long-Term Unemployed Individuals

“…A lack of consistent and reliable funding streams is common iii , as third sector organisations have to bid for sub-contracting arrangements with prime providers or for specialist funding (Egdell et al, 2016).…”

‘I just can’t bear these procedures, I just want to be out there working with children’: an autoethnography on neoliberalism and youth sports charities in the UK

“…This paper expands on the work of previous authors (e.g. Chouinard & Crooks, 2008;Egdell, Dutton, & McQuaid, 2016) by continuing to explore the tensions between neoliberal values and the voluntary sector. Whilst shaping the change and continuity of charities according to competition and marketisation principles can be favourable (it may allow organisations who conform to secure more funds for their programmes), the approach incurs significant drawbacks (such as developing frameworks that pander to the wants of funders instead of to the needs of young people).…”