A range of public, private, and third sector organisations have shared insights into how the voluntary sector could be strengthened by a bolder, more innovative approach to its work.

A collection of essays, published by ActionAid and New Philanthropy Capital, include ideas ranging from specific ground-breaking projects, to honesty about risk and failure, to developing completely new finance models for charities.

Contributors range from charities such as ActionAid, Oxfam, and Women’s Aid, to large companies like Capita and GlaxoSmithKline. The Charity Commission contributes, as does the Cabinet Office, BBC, and Department for International Development.

ActionAid’s director of people, performance, and accountability Judith Davey said innovation is imperative for charities to expand impact, scale-up reach, and make the best use of resources.

“There’s lot of debate in the sector about the need to innovate because of the tough external environment – but I believe that the innovation imperative is there irrespective as we should be constantly seeking to deliver on our mission more effectively.”

NPC director of communications Sue Wixley said charities will struggle when money is tight unless they find new ways to use the resources they have.

“This is where innovation becomes so important: there is work out there in other sectors, or through new technology, which can be adapted to do good.”

Access the essays here.

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