What is 'The Third Sector'

The third sector is made up of organisations 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 sector therefore includes organisations that may also be described as 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 staffed exclusively by volunteers, to large national charities that are household names with complex infrastructures and many 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.

More information:

National Council for Voluntary Organisations 

Charity Commission www.charitycommission.gov.uk

Social Enterprise Coalition http://www.socialenterprise.org.uk