Systems change
Home » Themes » Discover ideas and approaches »
Many issues the charity sector is trying to tackle are systemic—originating from how our society is structured, rather than any isolated factor. Systems change—or ‘systems thinking’—is a way of trying to get a handle on this complexity to bring about positive social impact. What’s more, we think it helps charities and funders to be more aware of the systems they are a part of. This way, they can be sure they are making things better, not worse, in the long run, and are working towards lasting change.
Featured resources and commentary on systems change
Systems change: A guide to what it is and how to do it
Systems change has been attracting the attention of those in the social sector who want to deal with the root causes of problems, but, despite the buzz, much of what is written is abstract in tone. With the support of LankellyChase Foundation we have produced this guide to plug a gap in the systems change literature—providing accessible material and recommendations for action.
Systems change at the frontline
This Leading Impact seminar will explore the barriers faced by people trying to influence systems change, showcase real examples of systems change at the frontline and discuss what kind of strategies and leadership are needed to embed systems change approaches.
Thinking big: How to use theory of change for systems change
We think that, applied well, theory of change can support charities and funders to take a systemic approach to their work. This report identifies five common pitfalls that organisations fall into when using theory of change, and walks through five rules of thumb that will help organisations to use the approach to tackle complex problems.
Embracing the process: bringing theory of change and systems change together
'Charities and funders don’t need to become experts in theory of change and systems change to benefit from them.' A week after we launched our new guide to theory of change for systems change, one of it's authors, Katie Boswell reflects on the process the team went through to create it, and what they learned about thinking big in pursuit of change.
Let’s embrace uncertainty to tackle systemic problems
Julian Corner Chief Executive of the Lankelly Chase Foundation argues that as change rarely comes in the form we expect, our strategies to achieve it should be just as flexible.
Latest updates
Systems change at the frontline
This Leading Impact seminar will explore the barriers faced by people trying to influence systems change, showcase real examples of systems change at the frontline and discuss what kind of strategies and leadership are needed to embed systems change approaches.
Barriers to systems change: What we’re hearing from the sector
Systems change is attracting more and more attention lately. Charities and funders have been telling us what barriers they face when ‘doing’ systems change. Here's how they might overcome three common issues.
State of the Sector 2020: Why insights and understanding are vital at this critical time for the charity sector
State of the Sector is our comprehensive survey of the opinions of charity leaders. PwC are proud to once again be co-sponsors of this research, at this critical juncture for the charity sector.
Ending homelessness: how collaboration can drive change
Funders Together to End Homelessness - a network of funders which supports strategic, innovative, and effective solutions to homelessness. This blog discusses the importance of collaborating and systems change in preventing and ending homelessness.
The conspicuous absence of the social sector (in this election’s manifestos)
Charities and funders seem to be missing from all the parties' manifestos in the 2019 general election, but they will be a vital partner for any future government. NPC Head of Policy Leah Davis introduces our manifesto, which explores the openness required for the future relationship to have impact.
State of the Sector 2020
State of the sector, our comprehensive survey of the opinions of charity leaders is returning for 2020. Theo Clay, lead researcher on the project sets out what's changed, what's stayed the same, and what we hope to achieve.
Should insourcing be the default, and what might it mean for charities?
After a period focused on outsourcing, some in local government seem to be taking services back in house. Why is this happening and is there a danger charities will be cut out of providing vital services.
Systems change: 4 lessons I’ve learnt
Becky Elton, Executive Director of Operations at Changing Lives shares the lessons she's learnt about system change.
NPC’s Summer reads 2019
The NPC team provide recommendations on what books to read this summer.
Three asks for the new government
Our letter to the incoming Minister for Civil Society (and former NPC staffer), Diana Barran.
Charity tax commission
Here NPC's Chief Executive Dan Corry provides highlights from his work on the recent Charity Tax Commission report.
Pink boats and mirrors: What are we learning about systems change?
Organisations like Extinction Rebellion are pushing the concept of systems change, which the social sector has been using for some time, up the agenda. So what lessons can we offer on the subject?
Talk to us
Have a question, comment, or want to work with us on systems change? Get in touch with Katie Boswell NPC’s Systems Change Lead.
Get in touch