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Merton’s voluntary, community and faith sector continues to expand while maintaining a high reputation for its excellence and reliability. It continues to be well placed to respond to changes in national and local policy.

Merton’s voluntary, community and faith sector is so diverse, spanning virtually every aspect of life, that it almost defies definition. Clearly, the sector is made up of independent not-for-profit groups, typically formed for charitable purposes in response to an emerging need by people with a common vision and a commitment to take action. Individually and collectively these groups are often engaged in identifying new needs and innovative projects, self-help, campaigning, lobbying and advocacy.

The voluntary, community and faith sector, often referred to as the third sector, plays a vital part in the local economy, distinct from the public and private sectors although increasingly working in partnership with them. These public and private agencies value voluntary, community and faith groups for reasons that include their expertise, their grass root links and their ability to develop innovative and appropriate services in response to needs. They recognise that voluntary, community and faith groups often know the most about a particular client group or specialist interest and are likely to be the closest organisations to the community.

Nationally, the role played by the voluntary, community and faith sector is increasingly being recognised and promoted. As a result, the sector will have an even more significant role in delivering local services in the coming years.

Locally funded groups are recognised as giving high value for money which is boosted by them being able to build on their core grants by bringing as much money again into the borough from outside funders. There are some large local organisations with many staff but most local groups have less than two paid staff or are small and unfunded with no paid staff. Voluntary, community and faith groups of all types involve large numbers of volunteers.

For information about the local voluntary, community and faith sector give us a call on 020 8685 1771. To visit our online database of groups click here.