An independent evaluation of the Finance Hub has concluded that the hub achieved what it set out to do, and improved resources for the voluntary sector.

The evaluation, carried out by Anderson and Gollan Associates, found, among other things, that the vast majority of people who had attended Finance Hub training courses felt better able to advise on funding opportunities, and that the hub’s management team was “both supportive and professional in their approach".

Anderson and Gollan Associates’ Sharon Gollan said: “We found that the Finance Hub had been very successful in achieving what it set out to do. This achievement marks the start of a process that could be rolled out to benefit a much larger audience. The Finance Hub programme has produced a wealth of information and resources that support a greater understanding of funding and finance in the voluntary and community sector.”

The evaluation comes as the new National Support Services are gearing up to take over from the hubs in April.