Veronica Coatham, Suzanne Lazarus and Peter Dalton
Using the example of the social housing sector, this paper seeks to evaluate the experiences of one organisation in attempting to learn more about a traditionally difficult to…
Abstract
Purpose
Using the example of the social housing sector, this paper seeks to evaluate the experiences of one organisation in attempting to learn more about a traditionally difficult to reach and engage group – young people – in order to develop more tailored services.
Design/methodology/approach
The research was undertaken as part of a Higher Education Funding Council for England‐funded University “Service by Design programme”, which was designed to enable the transfer of knowledge between the university and external agencies to improve service design. For this project, a focus group approach was adopted to capture the views of housing practitioners and young people. This was underpinned by reference to published literature and data held by the organisation.
Findings
The research led to an improved understanding of the attitudes and behaviours of young people, requiring service delivery staff and heads of departments to examine and change a number of organisational policies and practices. In addition, the research project contributed to evolving cultural change within the organisation and how young people were regarded.
Research limitations/implications
The research was undertaken in partnership with one organisation and hence may have limited transferability. However, the findings reflect those of other more comprehensive studies referred to in this paper.
Practical implications
The paper argues that “customer insight” should underpin excellent customer service. Without a deeper understanding of diverse customer profiles and behaviours, attempts to improve service provision and customer relationships will have limited success.
Originality/value
The paper makes a contribution to ongoing public debates about how young people are currently perceived and about public sector reforms.
Details
Keywords
Veronica Coatham and Lisa Martinali
The purpose of this paper is to reflect upon the development of the third sector and its relationship with social inclusion by reference to a specific case study – the Castle Vale…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to reflect upon the development of the third sector and its relationship with social inclusion by reference to a specific case study – the Castle Vale Community Regeneration Services (CVCRS). By drawing upon an informed understanding of CVCRS the authors examine the ways in which the discourse of “regeneration” and the “third sector” is played out.
Design/methodology/approach
The paper uses a case study approach as the basis for framing the debate and analysis.
Findings
The paper concludes that the capacity of third sector organisations to meet the expectations of local residents and local agencies and professionals represent real challenges. The case study also illustrates the way in which such organisations share the characteristics of small businesses and this raises important questions over the skills and capacities of those managing such projects.
Research limitations/implications
Implications for third sector organisations can be generalised from this paper.
Practical implications
The paper identifies the ways in which the medium to long‐term sustainability of such projects is contingent upon enhancing both the management/governance of such projects and also the mainstream funding of projects.
Originality/value
Case study material provides a richness in description and adds to understanding of the topic.