Partnerships don’t stop with individual organisations; it’s important (and sometimes essential) to involve anchor institutions too.
An anchor institution is a large, established local organisation like a university, council, NHS trust, housing association or even a private sector supporter.
These institutions can bring credibility, influence and the resources needed for long-term change. While their public image might not make them compatible as "the face of" the platform, they often have a direct connection to the communities they serve and a mandate to improve public outcomes - whether in health, education, housing or social care.
By embedding the platform into the everyday work of these institutions, our clients can:
- Reach broader and more diverse audiences, especially those who rely on public services.
- Address large-scale challenges like easing pressure on services or improving access to community support.
- Enable systemic change, by aligning with institutional strategies and demonstrating measurable impact.
If our clients are from the voluntary sector, we encourage them to develop the dialogue - engaging them not just as supporters, but as active partners - promoting the platform, integrating it into their service pathways, co-developing content and contributing resources like funding or staff time.
When anchor institutions are truly engaged, the platform becomes more than just a tool - it becomes part of the local infrastructure, embedded in the systems people already use and trust.
Tools for change
Explore our tools for change – practical guides and templates to help you build stronger partnerships.
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