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Research focuses on needs of third sector leaders

According to new research, 95% of leaders in medium-sized charities operating in the health and social care field feel unable to access the development they need to advance their leadership skills.

The survey, undertaken by Third Sector Leadership Centre and Henley Management College, found that the leaders of these charities and voluntary groups often struggle to access leadership development thinking from outside of the organisation.

Tracy Beasley, manager of the Third Sector Leadership Centre, said: "Charities of this size are under increasing pressure to deliver with scant resources in a fast paced environment, so the leadership role demands an even greater range of knowledge and skills than ever before. However, at the moment managers are simply not being given the support to develop."

The research, which surveyed over 150 leaders of medium sized organisations in the health and social care field in 2007, says managers prefer their development in the form of coaching, mentoring and networking, and that a flexible approach using internet-based products and distance learning was key to helping them balance new learning with business as usual and other commitments.

Tracy Beasley continued: "Leaders are seeking creative ways to access the learning that they need to stay abreast of change, however, this needs to be supported in a structured way to ensure development is accessible to those most in need, as the sector continues to go through a period of rapid change. A thriving sector depends on those who are able to adapt and change the way they lead, and we have to ensure that leaders have the relevant tools, and support, to do so."

External links

Third Sector Leadership Centre

Henley Management College

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