Cranfield Trust Research - Human-led and relational support crucial for small charities

19th June 2026

New research from Cranfield Trust, delivered with pro bono support from nfpResearch, highlights the pressures facing small charities and the types of specialist and targeted support that will have the biggest impact for charities and the sector in the years ahead. 

Drawing on  the perspectives of funders, charity leaders, volunteers and staff, the findings released in the new report, Right support, right time: Insights from the sector, present a picture of a sector working under sustained strain, but clear on the value of practical, relational support that strengthens leadership and organisational resilience.

During March 2026, Cranfield Trust undertook research to better understand how the needs of charities and not‑for‑profit organisations are evolving. From the 368 stakeholder responses, a consistent message emerged: charity leaders are balancing rising demand with increasingly challenging fundraising conditions and need support that is both specialist, accessible and human-centred to navigate this environment confidently.

Click here to read more about the findings and the report