About the voluntary, community and social enterprise sector
Across Cornwall there are many voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE). These organisations play a huge role in improving the lives of our residents. The last comprehensive review of Cornwall's VCSE sector took place in 2013. It found that the VCSE sector included 9% of Cornwall's total workforce. (This is in comparison with 3% nationally.) It comprised c13% of our economy (excluding the value of volunteering). Cornwall has one of the highest volunteering rates in the UK. Over a third of people give volunteer time, worth around half a billion pounds.
Voluntary organisations make a huge contribution to the Council's priorities for Cornwall. They often prevent or reduce demand for statutory services. They also deliver services through new, innovative community led and owned service models. The Council, as well as other statutory bodies, also fund many of the activities carried out by the voluntary sector in Cornwall.
All parts of the statutory and voluntary sector are currently facing funding pressures. It is more important than ever that we work together. Cornwall Council wants to work with, support and celebrate Cornwall's vital VCSE sector.
Cornwall charity grants
Cornwall has a thriving charity and voluntary community working to help people in need in our communities, and we understand the financial support needed for this work.
There are small grants available for a huge range of needs and projects. Follow the link below to find out which grants best suit your cause.
Cornwall Voluntary Sector Forum
The Council has a strategic partnership with Cornwall Voluntary Sector Forum (CVSF).
Cornwall Voluntary Sector Forum (VSF) is an independent organisation. As such, it represents and speaks for Cornwall's diverse VCSE sector. Through working with VSF, together we aim to achieve four things;
- Build trust with VCSE organisations by giving them a greater voice and increased opportunities for collaboration
- Add value to procurement processes by giving the VCSE sector meaningful involvement in the way that services are created and delivered through co-design and co-delivery
- Grow sector resilience and funding
- Make better use of our combined resources