Peer Researchers x4

Small community charitable organisations have deep understanding of the needs of those they serve. However, there is a chronic lack of funding for public and community services which create significant challenges for all organisations in the sector. Furthermore, the role of local communities in offering access to justice, shelter, basic amenities and social interaction is all too easily overlooked and/​or made invisible in public discourse, central and local government policymaking and media representation.

As such, the New Economics Foundation (NEF) is undertaking a piece of research commissioned by Lloyds Bank Foundation and the Legal Education Foundation which seeks to understand the existence, operation and opportunities of organisations which are run by-and-for the communities they serve. The intention of this project is to identify barriers experienced by those working in by-and-for organisations, the values and distinctiveness of these organisations and the opportunities they offer to improve the lives of community members.

To this end we would like to offer a short freelance research contract to 4 individuals with experience of community embedded research to be co-investigators with us on the project. To be eligible for this role you need to currently be working within a by-and-for organisation (in a paid or unpaid capacity).

The work will be undertaken from mid-September to December 2024. 

The day rate for this role is £400 for a maximum of 9 days’ work.

The role will be to undertake 15 semi-structured interviews (hybrid) with individuals working at all levels in by-and-for organisations, to illicit understanding of their challenges, complexities and successes. The researcher will be required to provide short written or oral reflections on each interview.

The researchers will be offered training and support from NEF’s specialists who have expertise in creative methods, co-production of knowledge and community engagement. This team will be led by Dr Abi O’Connor, who is the main point of contact between the researchers and NEF.

How to apply: Please visit the 'about us / job vacancies' section of our website.