Research

Our research helps us to understand the value and role of heritage in modern life.

We use the latest research to explore and test ideas for future funding. For example, how heritage projects can be more inclusive, and make a difference for under-served communities.

We research and produce reports such as rapid evidence reviews, enlisting the help of consultancies and universities.

Please explore the varied research we conduct below. It might help inform your funding application.

People walking across a bridge with gardening equipment in their hands

Publications

Heritage sector is resilient to the pandemic, despite economic challenges

Organisations have a positive financial and strategic outlook, but concerns remain over staffing and the uncertainty of the economic climate.

Publications

A review of green finance in the UK

Exploring new approaches to investment in natural heritage and support for nature’s recovery.

Publications

The impact of our funding on place

The Heritage and Place research report looks into the impact of our funding for place, and how we can improve the way our funding supports thriving places across the UK.

Publications

DASH report 2021: from pandemic to future planning

The second Digital Attitudes and Skills for Heritage (DASH) survey report offers a unique insight into how the UK heritage sector's use of digital has evolved during the pandemic.

Publications

A New Reality: fundraising in a crisis

Researcher and evaluator Henrietta Hopkins, Director of Hopkins Van Mil, introduces a new report which finds that heritage endowments are a cornerstone of resilience in challenging times.

A man and woman walking alongside a woman in a mobility scooter on a path surrounded by plants at RSPB Minsmere

Publications

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Review report

In this report we summarise – for each of the four workstreams – what we learned over the past 12 months, what we have already achieved, and set out key actions we will take throughout 2021-2022.

Brick buildings, signs, shopfronts and people on a main street in Belper

Publications

Assessment of local authority heritage priorities and support needs

This report presents insights from local authorities to help deliver resilient heritage and long-term improvements to places and communities.

a group of young poeple in a circle on the grass, looking over papers and post-it notes

Publications

How can the Heritage Fund be more inclusive of under-represented groups?

We commissioned independent research to understand perceptions of our approach to equality, diversity and inclusion, and barriers to accessing our funding.

Publications

DASH report: learning from the first UK-wide digital in heritage survey

The Digital Attitudes and Skills for Heritage (DASH) survey report offers vital insight into how heritage leaders can support their staff, trustees and volunteers.

Publications

eNGO Coronavirus Impact Survey Report, March 2020

Between 20 and 24 March 2020, Wildlife and Countryside Link (Link) worked with, NI Environment Link, Scot Link and Wales Environment Link and our members to conduct a UK-wide survey of the impact of the coronavirus on the environment sector.