Due diligence demystified shows how expensive risk assessment work carried out before merger or partnership, to ensure the other partner is financially stable, can be carried out in-house potentially saving charities thousands of pounds.

“Often there is a bit of ‘detective work’ that needs to take place before embarking on a new partnership,” said Kate Aldous, collaborative working unit manager at NCVO. “It’s essential that all parties know that the other organisation or organisations are sound before embarking on a merger or partnership, and that their aims are realistic.”

She said the guide will show charities how to carry this work out themselves and offer cost saving tips.

The NCVO has also published a guide explaining how voluntary sector organisations can make their work more accessible to rural communities. The publication, Access all areas – meeting the needs of rural communities, argues that charities should ‘rural proof’ their organisation by ensuring staff and volunteers have an understanding of rural needs, giving rural communities a say in service delivery, and collecting data on the rural areas the charity serves.

To download the publications visit www.ncvo-vol.org.uk