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Small Voluntary Organisations in the ‘Age of Austerity’: Challenges and Opportunities

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Abstract

This final chapter explores the limitations of neoliberal orthodoxy and the scope for change. I argue that a wider perspective is possible through reflexivity. With reflection, grassroots organisations are more able to engage in tactical action to gain neoliberal profits or to withdraw if the costs of gaining external resources threaten the core mission of the organisation. Supportive coalitions can assist grassroots organisations and can build a groundswell of support for policy change. Critical intellectuals can provide a robust evidence base to underpin this counter-discourse.

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Notes

  1. 1.

    The UK referendum on leaving the European Union, polling on 23rd June 2016.

  2. 2.

    Bourdieu (1992) La main gauche et la main droite de l’etat, interview by R.P. Droit & T. Ferenczi for Le Monde 14th January.

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McGovern, P. (2017). Small Voluntary Organisations in the ‘Age of Austerity’: Challenges and Opportunities. In: Small Voluntary Organisations in the 'Age of Austerity'. Palgrave Pivot, London. https://doi.org/10.1057/978-1-137-52188-0_6

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