Evaluation of the Voluntary and Community Sector Emergencies Partnership: Transition from COVID-19 Response to Wider Emergency Preparedness

This document describes an evaluation of two emergency preparedness initiatives: the Voluntary and Community Sector Emergencies Partnership's transition to broader emergency preparedness post-COVID-19, and the effectiveness of Local Resilience Forums (LRFs). The Partnership, established to foster collaboration between emergency responders, the voluntary sector, and the government, was assessed from July 2021 to March 2022 using mixed methods. Despite funding cuts and unforeseen emergencies, it showed progress in building trusted connections and improving information flow, but needs to work on inclusivity and national engagement. The evaluation found the Partnership to be economical, efficient, and effective, but only partially equitable. It recommends evidence-based strategies for sustainable funding and clear targets. Meanwhile, LRFs, which coordinate local emergency responses with various partners, were found to have strong partnerships and agreements that enhance emergency preparedness and response. The evaluation used surveys and report reviews, concluding that these collaborative efforts are valuable, with resources and reports available for further information. **This summary was written by an AI model and therefore should not be considered a definitive summary of the report. If you are aware of inaccuracies, please email evaluation.registry@cabinetoffice.gov.uk.**

Description

• Lead department: Closed organisation: Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport
• Evaluation stage: A complete evaluation report
• Other departments: No other departments listed
• Evaluation types: Process evaluation
• Process methods: Individual interviews; Surveys and polling
• Grant information: This intervention is not distributing funding via a grant
• Government Major Project information: This intervention is not a major project
• Policies: No policies provided

Event Dates

• Event Name: Publication of final results
• Event date: June 2022

Evaluation Costs

• Cost: Not provided

Evaluation sharing

• Link(s) to published report(s): Yes
• Links to evaluation plans: No link provided
• Findings: Not provided
• Permission to share confirmed: Yes