Strong demand for new £2.5 million evidence infrastructure pilot

Civil society is one of the UK’s greatest strengths, but charities and social sector organisations face persistent barriers that limit their effectiveness. Led by CEO Matt Whittaker, think tank PBE (formally Pro Bono Economics) has researched and developed a compelling business case for a new civil society evidence organisation (CSEVO) designed to improve the flow and use of evidence across the sector, helping organisations make smarter decisions, reduce duplication, and spread good practice.

The proposed new evidence organisation would operate as a central hub, connecting charities, funders, policymakers, researchers, and data providers like the Charity Commission, Bank of England and Office for National Statistics. Its activities would focus on:

  • Understanding evidence needs: Engaging with civil society to identify urgent gaps.
  • Generating and sharing research: Producing high-quality, accessible evidence.
  • Translating insights into action: Ensuring outputs are practical and user-friendly.

Despite their innovation and commitment, charities invest less in technology, leadership, and skills than other sectors. Many are stretched for capacity and forced to prioritise short-term delivery over long-term development. The sector’s evidence base is fragmented and often inaccessible, holding back progress.

CSEVO aims:

  • Help charities, funders, and policymakers to make more informed choices.
  • Support collaboration and efficiency among evidence providers.
  • Ultimately, improve outcomes for the public who rely on civil society.

A central evidence organisation was one of the recommendations of the Law Family Commission on Civil Society that PBE led from 2020 to 2023. Funded by the Law Family Charitable Foundation (now named AL Philanthropies), the business plan proposes that CSEVO be housed within a trusted existing organisation, with £2.5 million needed over five years to pilot the hub. Costs would be shared between the social sector and government, with government using matched funding to encourage philanthropic support. Governance would also be split, ensuring independence and representation for all users.

PBE researchers spoke with over 100 people as part of a detailed consultation to inform the business case, and the work was overseen by a dedicated group of experts from across the social sector. The business plan demonstrates strong demand for CSEVO’s hub-and-spoke approach. PBE urges government and sector funders to work together to make this vision a reality, transforming the landscape for charities and the communities they serve.

Funders and research organisations interested in co-funding or hosting CSEVO, should contact PBE’s Head of Social Sector and report co-author anoushka.kenley@pbe.co.uk

Matt Whittaker, CEO of PBE and report author, said:

“Civil society is a national asset, but it’s held back by structural barriers. This business case sets out how a civil society evidence organisation can provide the evidence infrastructure needed to unleash more of its potential, delivering better outcomes for families and communities across the UK.”