Blurring boundaries between sectors
The boundaries between the VCS, public sector and the market have become increasingly blurred. Many VCOs are delivering public services traditionally undertaken by the state and new forms of VCOs such as social enterprises have developed as a reaction to the emphasis on earned income and sustainability. In some cases hybrid organisations have developed at the boundaries between the sectors.
What are the implications?
- There may be a confusion in public services about the distinction between charitable organisations and others
- Increasing competition between different sectors
- Confusion for VCOs in where to seek support (VCS umbrellas, private support organisations)
- As boundaries blur, skills sets between the sectors become more similar, and an increasing numbers of people may switch sectors.
- A blurring of boundaries between the VCS, public sector and the market leading to the mainstreaming of the VCS
- Further polarisation of the sector
Moving forward
Is your organisation prepared for the increased competition that blurring of the boundaries can bring?
How can you ensure that your organisation retains its identify as a VCO? How can you ensure that people still recognise the support your organisation offers?
As people switch sectors, how can your organisation take advantage of the skills people bring from the private and public sector? What can the VCS and your organisation offer staff that the private and public sector does not?
As the boundaries blur, organisations may become confused as to where to seek help. Do you know which organisations offer support for you?
Want to know more?
Published by: The Charity Commission
Date: 2007
Format: PDF
What is it? This report discusses the extent to which charities deliver public services and the implications of this in terms of governance, sustainability and the nature of the sector.
How useful is this? This report is very useful in setting the context, with relevant data and an informed discussion. It is also relatively concise. The report is based on an online survey with a sample size of 3803. Details of the methodology are given in the report.
Other comments:
Private Delivery of Public Services
Published by: The Centre for Market and Public Organisation
Date: 2008
Format: PDF
What is it? This is an academic report analysing private-public partnerships, and public service delivery by private sector and voluntary sector organisations.
How useful is this? This is a useful report, giving a careful analysis of the issue. It also provides an extensive reference list of relevant papers.
Other comments:
Published by: NCVO
Date: 2009
Format: PDF
What is it? This report aims to identify ways in which the blurring of boundaries affects civil society organisations. It is based on an NCVO seminar and draws on ideas from a range of civil society organisations and academic researchers.
How useful is this? This report gives a useful basis for ongoing discussions on this issue. It also identifies key points for policy and practice.
Other comments:
Discuss
How will this affect your organisation? Have you considered it during your strategic planning? Can you share any interesting relevant links?
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