Research methods

This page shares resources related to best practice in third sector research methods.

UK Data Service introductory training series: Autumn 2023

The UK Data Service provide access to a wide range of social science data for reuse. They run free introductory level online workshops every spring and autumn to introduce different aspects of the UK Data Service. Click here to view their courses for Autumn 2023.


Reflecting on digital youth work research during COVID-19 – YouthLink Scotland

Presentation on researching digital youth work during the COVID-19 pandemic. View here.


Innovating in the third sector: online research and services in 2020 – University of Glasgow

Presentations from the virtual seminar.

Other useful resources:

An introduction to the UK Data Service – UK Data Service

UK Data Service held an introductory workshop for anyone interested in social research. Participants learned about the types of qualitative and quantitative data they hold, how to find data collections, and an overview of support and training resources. View the event slides here.

Youth-led practice – Binks Hub and Citadel Youth Centre collaboration

Binks Hub and Citadel Youth Centre collaborate on youth-led research, intergenerational work, connecting academia with communities and how to involve youth people in research. Read more here.

Research lessons from cost of living study – Volunteer Scotland

Testing our resilience” was a paper investigating the impact of the cost of living crisis on volunteering and volunteers. View here.

Researching rising costs using a longitudinal panel study – SCVO

The Scottish Third Sector Tracker (Tracker) is a community of third sector organisations. The community was established in response to the pandemic as third sector support organisations, including SCVO, Scottish Government and funders, sought to understand the challenges facing third sector organisations and how best to support them. View here.