Research
Helping you access, understand and use research to strengthen your mahi.
Research Services
- Monitoring national policy, research and media trends and sharing key updates with the sector
- Drafting submissions to local and national government on issues/bills that affect the sector
- Leading or contributing to local research projects on the sector
- Advice and support for organisations to access or conduct research
Frequently Asked Questions
How can you help my organisation with research?
While we do not have the capacity to do the work, we can talk through what you want to find out, whether it’s realistic, and what methods might work best and other questions you might have with surveys, interpreting results and writing up findings.
Do you conduct research on behalf of organisations?
No we can’t. But we can support or advise you, help you clarify the scope and connect you with other expertise if needed.
How do you communicate research and policy information?
We monitor national developments regularly, sharing key updates primarily through our member newsletter (subscribe here), and website posts.
How does this differ from Community Insights?
Our researcher focuses on research guidance, policy scanning, sector trends and local studies. Community Insights (CI) focuses on data access, analysis and capability-building. But they are interconnected, with our researcher also being part of the CI team.
Can we suggest topics for research or submissions?
Absolutely. We welcome feedback from organisations about issues affecting their mahi and the people they serve and often seek input for our submissions on behalf of the sector.
Research at SociaLink helps the social and community sector make well-informed decisions.
What:
Our researcher and policy analyst:
- Scans national policy, media and research publications, sharing what’s most relevant to the sector through our website and newsletters
- Keeps a close eye on emerging trends
- Leads and contributes to local research that builds understanding of issues affecting our communities
- Advocates on behalf of the sector via informed submissions to local and national government
- Supports organisations seeking or conducting research (e.g. evaluations/surveys) – this work overlaps with the Community Insights team, who support organisations with data access and capability-building
Why:
Research strengthens the sector’s ability to respond to community needs. By understanding trends, identifying gaps, and accessing quality evidence, organisations can plan more effectively, evaluate their mahi and advocate for better outcomes.
Who it’s for:
Any not-for-profit or for-purpose organisation operating in the Western Bay of Plenty.
Cost:
FREE
Liz Stewart
Policy, Research + Advocacy
Liz can help you with all research related questions and projects, whether you are a small volunteer-led group or a large more established organisation.
Click to view her bio.
Coming Soon!