Research & Publications
Every time we work with a client we learn more about their world, and recognise synergies, connections and opportunities across and between sectors and themes.
We believe that knowledge is more powerful if it is shared, and aim to make our research reports and findings public whenever we can (and with our clients’ permission, of course.)
See below for links to our latest research, opinions and articles. Please feel free to contact us if you’d like to discuss any of our publications.
Publications & Reports
The value of volunteering at Citizens Advice is at least £100m
Citizens Advice in England helped over 2.5 million people last year Volunteers at Citizens Advice have huge opportunities for learning, training and, most importantly, to help their local community. As the UK’s largest advice [...]
‘Leading the Way’: The role and value of nurses in general practice in England (Phase Three)
The role of general practice nurses Many perceive that where general practitioners lead, general practice nurses follow. Our research proves that this is an outdated notion. Nurses are leading the way in programmes of [...]
The value of a social tenancy saves £78 billion annually
England’s 4.2 million social rented homes contribute at least £77.7 billion a year to the national economy in savings for the NHS, councils, police and government, and in the economic opportunities created for residents, [...]
The Difference that Right There Makes
Today, Right There has launched their report which articulates the impact that they have on society and the Scottish economy. This research, entitled “The Difference that Right There Makes” conducted by Sonnet Advisory & [...]
‘Reaching my potential’: The value of provision for complex special educational needs
The National Association of Independent Schools and Non-Maintained Schools (NASS) commissioned Sonnet Advisory and Impact to explore the impact that can be achieved by complex Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) provision, when learners’ needs [...]
Developing a Theory of Change for the BERRI evaluation tool
In February 2022, Sonnet worked with BERRI to develop their Theory of Change. BERRI is a clinical evaluation tool for identifying, tracking and improving the outcomes of children with complex needs. The assessment gathers information [...]
Blog, News & Videos
Webinar: How innovation funds can be a game-changing strategy
How can charities unlock real innovation and impact — while also building long-term sustainability? Join us for a live webinar in collaboration with Firetail, featuring Sonnet’s founder Jim Clifford OBE, and senior consultant, Kirsten [...]
Tim’s story – meeting learners’ needs in special education
Watch this short video that introduces Tim, one of eight learners with Special Educational Needs and Disibilities (SEND) whose stories are explored in our report Reaching my potential. You can use our report and [...]
Adapting to Thrive: Charities’ Innovative Responses to Crisis and Change
Back in May 2023, I wrote a piece about exploring options and alternatives to closure for organisations, drawing on examples of work we’ve done at Sonnet for the likes of TechNation and others. In [...]
Why do we keep designing systems that damage our communities and harm individuals?
Jim Clifford responds to the coroner’s findings about the death of Ruth Perry, which she linked to the Ofsted Inspection which contributed to it. He suggests that this is not [...]
Meet the Magic Behind Sonnet: Our Team’s Favourite Disney Characters
As we head into the winter holiday season, we thought it fitting to publish something fun, lighthearted and festive. In the spirit of Walt Disney Day, a celebration of creativity and imagination, we have decided [...]
Trustees Week 2023: Working together with purpose and puzzles
Alice Hulbert Manager Jim Clifford CEO Trustees are at the heart of all charities, but how do they keep these charities ticking [...]