Pie Factory Music is a youth charity in East Kent offering free programmes in youth work, music, arts, and counselling. Each year, it supports nearly 1,000 young people—especially those facing challenging life circumstances—to build skills, confidence, and brighter futures.

Alongside core services, Pie Factory Music runs creative workshops, mentoring, mental health support, and performance opportunities for ages 8–25. Working with schools, social services, and local partners, it reaches at-risk youth and promote self-expression, personal growth, and social connections. Its team of musicians, youth workers and counsellors helps participants grow resiliently and realise their potential.

What do we need from a volunteer? 

Pie Factory Music has enlisted the help of researcher Lizzie O’Halloran at Outskirts Research to prepare a report with the main purpose of presenting clear financial evidence of “community return” in relation to the organisation’s use of its current building. The report is scheduled for submission to Kent County Council (KCC) by 8th August 2025, in accordance with statutory requirements and to inform KCC’s decision-making process.

The report provides a Community Return on Investment analysis that quantifies both the financial and social value generated by Pie Music Factory’s services. It sets out an evidence-based assessment of the organisation’s contribution to community outcomes and cost savings, in connection with continued occupation of the current building.

Outskirts Research would like volunteer support to review the report before submission.

The volunteer will be responsible for: 

  • Assessing the accuracy of lost savings, replacement costs and net cost benefit calculations.
  • Verifying that the evidence and analysis communicate Pie Music Factory’s social and economic value clearly.
  • Evaluating the methodological approach for rigour and alignment with recognised best practices.
  • Providing feedback on the draft report overall.

The ideal volunteer:  

  • Familiar with cost-benefit analysis and financial proxies.
  • Experienced in economic and social value reporting.
  • Able to provide constructive feedback and ensure alignment with best practices.
  • Familiar with council reporting requirements (desirable but not necessary).
  • Be based in the United Kingdom 
  • Had their registration confirmed

What are the timescales? 

The volunteer must complete the work by 4th August to give the charity time to review and make any amendments before submission to the council.

Starting: ASAP

Closing date for applications: Friday 25th July, 9am

If you are selected to volunteer for this project:  

You will be working directly with Pie Factory Music. PBE is only responsible for matching. 

If Pie Factory Music share personal data with you, you should only use the data as instructed by them. 

PBE is an equal opportunity organisation and values diversity. We encourage applications from all parts of the community, and we give all applicants and volunteers fair and equal treatment, regardless of age, race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or nationality.  

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