We have just launched the results of our research into what charities want from grant-makers, and what a model grant-maker looks like in the eyes of charities. ‘Taking nothing for granted’ is an extensive piece of research and here is a blog outlining what we believe are some of the hallmarks of a model grant-maker.

I was incredibly impressed with the team in terms of their professionalism, skills and the quality of the final report they produced. In particular, I was delighted with how well YouthNet and nfpSynergy worked together. The team were friendly and approachable and always took our comments on board in a timely and productive way. We felt in control of the project, while at the same time were able to put our trust in nfpSynergy at all times. We very much look forward to working together on future projects.

We were really pleased with the clear presentation of the findings which managed to be both succinct and comprehensive. The breaking down of results by type of drinker has really helped our work since the evaluation was completed. It was a really good project to work on.

Jane Greenstock, when she was Research Coordinator at Drinkaware. She is now Research Assistant at Social Care Institute for Excellence.

• Lib Dems noticeably less effusive than Tories; Labour MPs most sceptical of all.
• "Coalition enthusiasm, albeit relatively half-hearted in the Lib Dem camp, is grounds for joy or gloom if you are a charity
• Depending on whether or not you think this heralds extra support to help you fill any gap resulting from public sector cost-cutting" vies nfpSynergy

Coalition MPs overwhelmingly believe that “charities and social enterprises are going to be more important to the new government than to the last one

Charities in the UK are set up and run with an energy, passion, and genuine desire for change that is breathtaking. These organisations have achieved incredible things; affecting changes in policy, changing and challenging the way people think about issues and improving the lives of hundreds of thousands of people. However, one of the often inevitable effects of organisational growth is a dilution of that original very clear focus.

• Majority of Councillors & Local Authorities rate charities at least on par with public sector for service provision - yet only use them for 14% of services
• 3 in 5 rate charity provision of public services at least on par with delivery by companies – yet still use companies for 26% of services
• “Public sector spirit willing, conversion into charity contracts weak,” cautions Saxton

58% of Councillors and 50% of Local Authority staff think “charities are able to deliver public services as cost-effect