PEF's Research Programme
PEF’s first research report has shone the spotlight on the complexity of issues facing 16 to 24 year olds not in jobs, education or training (NEET) and the paucity of evidence on what interventions work. In its first piece of commissioned research we found there was almost a total lack of data for measuring attributable impact within the sector.
Shaks Ghosh, PEF’s Chief Executive, said: “This research has confirmed the day to day experience of those working with youngsters not in education, employment or training; that there are myriad reasons for their disengagement. However, unfortunately we have been unable to capitalise on the fantastic work being carried out, as we’ve found very little evaluation of projects".
The Matrix Knowledge Group, which undertook the study on behalf of PEF, carried out a comprehensive review of the existing evidence base, including a Rapid Evidence Assessment, an interview programme, and peer review by leading academics and charities working with young people. Although over 30 provider organisations, charitable foundations, innovation brokers and government funded schemes were identified, only three, all from the USA, employed a research design for measuring effectiveness of intervention. It is important to note that that this does not mean that there are no effective interventions, only that the data is not yet available to demonstrate the effect of most.
The recent CBI report, Towards a NEET solution: tackling underachievement in young people has found that although improvements are being made, progress is patchy.
It also stated that “tackling the NEETs problem need not involve spending more money, but rather spending it wisely”. PEF believes that the first step is to work with charities to improve the evidence base of their work and is currently investigating options for its own portfolio charities.
Shaks Ghosh, added: “The third sector is often so busy delivering that it is no surprise that it doesn’t have time to put evaluation programmes in place. However, this does have ramifications, not only with regard to missed opportunities and better channelled investment, but also for donors who are looking for evidence on effectiveness, particularly in the current economic climate".“As a venture philanthropy fund with a portfolio of charities we are in a unique position to look at whether there is a common way we can measure beneficial impacts. This is a three year project and we look forward to reporting on our findings.”
As part of its commitment to the NEETs issue, beyond its portfolio charities, PEF is also inviting all relevant charities to sign up to a new web portal. Available at www.privateequityfoundation.org/directory-research/research/ , the aim is to create a “destination” for individuals or organisations seeking information on NEETs at a local, regional and national level.