Current and recent projects
Operational Sustainability Research Project (funded by Lloyds TSB, Esmée Fairbairn and Friends Provident)
Combining academic rigour with a practical approach, we are currently conducting a detailed benchmarking study of five leading CDFIs in the UK to identify best practice in financial sustainability. The study is based on financial sensitivity analysis, analysis of staff efficiency and productivity, and on an assessment of the effectiveness of partnerships. Based on these analyses, we are developing technical advice for the CDFIs involved and policy recommendations for funders on how to best promote the sustainability of the community finance sector. Moreover, we expect our findings will inform debate and policy on the sector more widely.
The Social Impact of Community Finance Initiatives (funded by Esmée Fairbairn)
Together with the University of Sheffield, we are conducting an evaluation of the impact of personal and business loans provided by the UK community finance sector. This involves statistical analysis of longitudinal household and enterprise data, and in-depth client interviews. As the most extensive of its kind in the UK to-date, we expect the findings to shed light on the social performance of the UK CDFI sector.
Social Housing Landlord financial inclusion toolkit (funded by the Housing Corporation and Friends Provident Foundation)
Combining our extensive expertise in housing and financial exclusion, we are currently developing a toolkit for social housing landlords in promoting financial inclusion. This toolkit informs housing officers of the potential models for delivering appropriate financial and advisory services to their tenants.