Leading, supporting and strengthening Sunderland’s voluntary and community sector since 1973
EnGAGE
INSPIRE
Empower
Voluntary and Community Action Sunderland (VCAS) champions a strong, independent and thriving Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise (VCSE) sector in Sunderland. For over 50 years, we have been the trusted voice, advocate and support hub for local organisations, ensuring they are represented, resourced and recognised at every level.
We believe every VCSE organisation, from the smallest grassroots group to the largest charity, deserves the opportunity to grow, influence and make a lasting difference. Our role is to make that possible.
Today, we support more than 388 organisations across the city. Our members are the foundation of everything we do. We
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Listen to their needs,
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Amplify their voices,
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Provide the practical support, connections and guidance that help them build resilience,
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Strengthen governance
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Deliver meaningful impact in their communities.
As Sunderland’s local infrastructure organisation, we work alongside partners, funders and policymakers to ensure the sector is valued, understood and equipped for the future. We are here to enable growth, nurture collaboration and create the conditions where the VCSE sector can continue to be dynamic, confident and influential.
Stronger Organisations. Stronger Communities. A Stronger Sunderland.
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* Grow your organisation
Good Practice Builds Strong Foundations
Strong Foundations Build Strong Communities
The sector's independence needs to be understood and valued, not just by stakeholders but by the voluntary sector itself. Voluntary organisations need to ensure and assert their values and independence.’
NAVCA
How VCAS Enables a Vibrant, Inclusive and Confident VCSE Sector
VCAS Pillars of Support
Sector Support
A confident, skilled and knowledgeable VCSE sector delivering high‑quality projects and activities that strengthen communities and create lasting impact.
Sector Collaboration
Supporting and enabling voluntary and community organisations to connect, share learning and collaborate — building stronger partnerships and achieving greater collective impact across the city.
Sector Strategy & Practice
Championing high‑quality, inclusive and evidence‑based practice across the VCSE sector. Increasing representation and embedding equity to ensure services meet the needs of all communities in Sunderland.
Sector Influence
Strengthening the voice of the VCSE sector so it can shape policy, influence decision‑makers and ensure community perspectives are heard at every level.
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