What is the voluntary and community sector?

The voluntary and community sector is also referred to as 'the third sector' and the 'civil society' sector. It is made up of groups that are:

• Independent of government and constitutionally self-governing, usually with an unpaid voluntary management committee
• Value-driven - they exist for the good of the community, to promote social, environmental or cultural objectives in order to benefit society as a whole, or particular groups within it
• Not run for financial gain - they re-invest any surpluses to further their objectives

The above encompasses: charities, community groups, social enterprises, co-operatives and clubs. It includes organisations working in the fields of health and social care, community leisure and recreation activities, environmental work, arts, sports, education, campaigning and advocacy. It also includes many faith-based organisations.

Voluntary sector organisations vary enormously in size, from small local groups run exclusively by volunteers, to large national charities that are household names with a complex infrastructure and hundreds of staff.

Voluntary and community organisations enable individuals to contribute to public life and the development of their communities by providing the opportunity for voluntary action. In doing so they make use of the skills, interests, beliefs and values of individuals and groups.

Our Citizens Guide gives an overview of the types of groups which operate in York: