Two years into the Community Anchor Development Programme, we are pleased to share our interim evaluation, undertaken by Miller Research. The evaluation assesses the programme's impact and progress towards its aims of strengthening 11 community anchor organisations across Wales and, through them, building resilience within the communities they serve.

The findings offer valuable lessons, not only for the organisations involved but for anyone interested in how communities can be strengthened over the long term. The report provides important insights into the programme's approach and impact. The evidence highlights the importance of core funding, the role of flexibility in providing effective support to community organisations, and how trust-based funding can build stronger ownership and meaningful accountability. It also demonstrates the value of relational support alongside funding, as well as the benefits of the shared learning programme.

Just over halfway through the programme, we are already seeing encouraging signs of progress. Organisations report feeling better equipped to plan ahead, support volunteers, and make decisions with confidence. Behind the scenes, governance, systems, and leadership are becoming stronger too, helping to build firmer foundations for the future.