About the project

 

This PhD research project takes local deaf charities as a case study to explore the effects of public sector contracting for services - so called  marketisation - on a particular type of nonprofit: one which is often user led and supports a community marginalised by a distinct language and culture. In this case we are talking about user-led deaf charities supporting Deaf sign language users.

 

Many local deaf charities today are engaged in supporting the delivery of health and social care services. It could be through the provision of BSL interpreting for medical appointments, helping deaf people into employment, routine maintenance of hearing aids, and home visits to install listening aid and visual alert equipment.  

 

In order to adapt to a market-driven environment, many local deaf charities have had to transform the way they operate.  Some argue it has encouraged a new kind of professionalism, that it has provided unprecedented opportunities for employees to develop, and for organisations to grow. For others, marketisation presents a challenge to a deaf charity's independence, a disincentive to promote deaf culture, and at worst a threat to the bond a deaf charity has with its local deaf community.

 

Exploring the effects of marketisation on local deaf charities shines a light on an under-served community in England.  This project will contribute to our understanding of what has been a far-reaching shift towards contract funding, and the impact it is having on third sector organisations supporting 'hard-to-reach', marginalised groups. 

 

Are you a senior manager at a local deaf charity? If so, please get in touch now to find out how you can help contribute to this research project.