Below the Radar

radar image

This research explores the role, function, impact and experiences of small community action groups or organisations. These include those working at a local level or in communities of interest - such as women’s groups or refugee and migrant groups. We are interested in both formal organisations and more informal community activity.

Through a series of events and discussions, we are bringing people together to discuss maximising the impact of community activity. See http://btr11.civicrowd.com

The research is informed by a reference group which brings together practitioners from national community networks, policy makers and researchers, as well as others who bring particular perspectives on, for example, rural, gender or black and minority ethnic issues.

Key questions

What do below the radar (BTR) groups, activities and organisations look like? What is their role and function and how do they operate?
What are the motivations of those involved in BTR groups and activities?
What is the life cycle of BTR organisations and what activities do they conduct?
What is the impact of more informal community action and organising?

Current work

We have completed a review of the literature on below the radar activity along with base-line interviews with key community sector informants. We are also working with the Real Times research theme to explore, in depth, the nature and function of small community groups and activities and how these change over time. In addition, using primary research sources, a working paper on the distinctiveness of community based organisations is also available, along with a review of below the radar groups in a big society and Working Paper 63 on the Gypsy, Traveller and Roma Third Sector.

We are also undertaking a ‘micro-mapping’ of community activity in two areas of England. This will inform our longer term work with ‘below the radar’ groups across the country.

Next steps

Below the Radar work in the immediate future will focus on two key areas of research. Firstly, how skills, knowledge and resources are transferred within and between community groups and secondly a follow up paper on below the radar groups in a big society one year on.

We are planning events and workshops on current issues for community based organisations over 2011/12 including community cohesion, faith groups and commissioning. The first, supported by Barrow Cadbury Trust was hosted at Communities and Local Government in July 2011. To join the online discussions from this ‘Beyond the Radar’ event, visit http://btr11.civicrowd.com and get involved.