VCAS Update
Voluntary and Community Action Sunderland (VCAS) and the Sunderland Voluntary Sector Alliance (SVSA) have agreed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that sets out "a shared commitment to work transparently, collaboratively and in the best interests of the VCSE sector as we explore the development of a single Local Infrastructure Organisation (LIO) for Sunderland."
Sunderland VCSE Sector and VCAS member organisations are central to this development and we will be asking for your support and contributions moving forward.
Consultant Opportunity
If you are interested in this opportunity the information can be found via VONNE website as well as this site and VCAS and SVSA website. Links below
VCAS Supporting a Strong Future for Sunderland’s VCSE Infrastructure
This critical work will be guided by the Transition Framework contained within the MoU, which outlines a structured, sector‑led process focused on removing duplication, strengthening independence, safeguarding member voice, and ensuring any future LIO is developed to meet NAVCA’s Local Infrastructure Quality Accreditation (LIQA) standards.
Through our membership and regional networks, we recognise the strong desire across Sunderland’s VCSE sector for clear, effective and sector‑led infrastructure support.
Next Step
The appointment of an independent consultant to support the process. Funding has been provided by the Community Foundation Tyne & Wear and Northumberland (CFTWN) and Sunderland City Council. VONNE will administer the recruitment process on behalf of partners, in line with the MoU, and will provide supportive input where appropriate.
The VCSE Sector will continue to lead the process, with VONNE’s role focused on facilitation and administrative support rather than direction.
All work will be undertaken in accordance with the principles set out in the MoU, including independence, accountability to members, transparency, and the safeguarding YOUR voice.
Janette Hilton Executive Chief Officer
VCAS: Our Story
For more than 50 years, Voluntary and Community Action Sunderland (VCAS) has been at the heart of the city’s voluntary and community sector. We began in 1973 as Sunderland’s Council for Voluntary Service, created to bring local groups together, strengthen community action, and ensure the sector had a clear and independent voice.
As the needs of Sunderland’s communities grew, so did we. Through the 1980s and 1990s, we expanded our support for charities, community groups and volunteers, offering governance advice, training, funding guidance and opportunities for collaboration. In 2010, we became Voluntary and Community Action Sunderland (VCAS), reflecting our broader, more inclusive role across the whole VCSE sector.
Today, VCAS is recognised as Sunderland’s Local Infrastructure Organisation (LIO). We support more than 380 organisations, from small grassroots groups to established charities. Our work includes organisational development, volunteering support, partnership brokering, sector intelligence, and strong representation with local, regional and national partners.
Throughout every stage of our history, one thing has remained constant: VCAS exists to strengthen, support and champion voluntary and community action in Sunderland.Rooted in the city’s neighbourhoods and trusted across the sector, we continue to help organisations grow, collaborate and create lasting impact for the people and communities of Sunderland.
Be part of VCAS's New Heritage Project recognising
the amazing heritage and legacy of Sunderland's
VCSE Sector.