Donations or statutory funding? Exploring the funding of historical childhood sexual abuse support services in England and Wales

Abstract

The voluntary sector provides specialist services to survivors of childhood sexual abuse (CSA) though little research exists on how these organisations are funded. This research using a multi-method design explores the funding landscape of the CSA sector. Analysis of the financial returns of 48 charities supporting survivors was undertaken to ascertain income breakdown and to identify whether this has changed over time. Semi-structured interviews with ten organisations explore the attributes of the funding approaches taken. Findings highlight that funding has increased, and the sector, while providing a vital service, is dependent on the state to do so. Commissioning is inconsistent and is a relational process depending on the skills of and relationships between those involved, resulting in varying provision across the country. Findings contribute towards the growing knowledge base around funding of CSA charities and point towards the need for the state to improve its commissioning of such organisations.