This paper presents preliminary findings from primary research undertaken in Scotland towards a PhD. The research explores the relationship between the third sector and the state, focusing on Third Sector Interfaces (TSIs) as a site through which to examine the third sector-state relationship. The political context of this research is Scotland’s democratic renewal agenda. The research considers the impact on third sector organisations of engaging in public service co-design - a key part of the democratic renewal agenda - and the potential impact of this engagement on the third sector’s independence.
TSIs are organisations that support and represent the third sector in all 32 local authorities. The Scottish Government instituted the model in 2011 in part to facilitate a clear route for third sector representation in community planning. Alongside local government and statutory organisations, TSIs participate in high level decision making in local planning making their role a vital one in the co-design in public services.
Research on the third sector-state relationship has focused on whether the sector’s active role as a state delivery vehicle has compromised its independence (Alcock and Kendall, 2011; Carmel and Harlock, 2008; Fyfe, 2005). Of lessor focus, but of increasing significance, is the question of whether the sector’s independence is compromised by its active role as a partner in governance networks, such as Scotland’s CPPs (Durose et al, 2015; Sinclair, 2008; Fyfe and Mulligan, 2003).
Qualitative research was undertaken from an interpretivist theoretical approach. Scoping interviews were conducted with 14 national stakeholders. A large urban TSI was selected as a case study; 19 interviews were conducted with stakeholders, 12 interviews with TSI staff and 16 community planning meetings observed.
The paper explores two key themes. One is the challenging role faced by TSIs as intermediary bodies; the paper argues that the TSIs exist in a “liminal space” navigating a tightrope between the sector and the state. Another theme explored is the role of the state in intervening with the structures of third sector organisations, described as a “civil servant construct” by one participant. The paper explores questions about the state’s interference in civil society, particularly in its attempts to create organisations that mirror state structures. The threat to third sector independence resulting from the first two themes is explored and the impact of this threat on the sector’s engagement in public service co-design.
The paper concludes that while intermediary bodies play an essential role in interfacing between the third sector and the state, the risks to the sector’s independence must be considered. The role of principles and values are considered as a way for third sector organisations to maintain their independence. Given the significant role that has been created for TSIs in occupying the intermediary space between the state and the community, and in contributing to the co-design of public services, this is important research in the study of public management.
ISRPM_2018_Jane_Cullingworth_-_Powerpoint_Presentation_with_notes.pdf 