Considering the benefits of different models of one-to-one support

Avoiding a "one-size fits-all" approach to support provision

Research highlighting the importance of identifying the support needs of third sector organisations through effective diagnosis.

The report highlights the extent to which smaller or newer groups can bebefit from more intensive, regular one-to-one support as they develop and grow.

While we cannot generalise too far from the range of case studies and other examples explored, the research suggested that:

• Third Sector Organisations' (TSO's) stage of development has implications for the intensity of support required, for example if they are a stage of moving from community group to constituted organisation, or going through transition from a small charity to a larger organisation. In either of these cases, support might need to be one-to-one and in depth to be effective

• Similarly, support in addressing strategic issues might need to be more in-depth and one-to-one, as issues are often specific to organisations. Meanwhile it seemed to be possible to deliver support in developing systems and processes, building skills, and building external relationships less intensively

More information on the research is available at the Improving Support website.