The State of the Voluntary Sector report is produced every three years and reports on the social and economic impact of voluntary organisations, community groups, social enterprises and the community work of faith groups in Salford.
The last report, produced in 2013, was supported a collaborative approach with a partnership of seven other local support and development organisations in Greater Manchester. This was the first time that we were are able to see the impact of Salford groups against a Greater Manchester picture.
The 2013 picture was one of resilience and dedication to providing continued support to Salford’s communities:
- An estimated 1,364 organisations (1,376 in 2010) provide 2.7 million interventions with Salford residents each year
- The total income of the sector in the City was an estimated £145 million in 2011/12 (£156 million in 2010)
- An estimated 37,300 volunteers contribute an estimated 137,000 hours of their own time each week valued at £122.7 million worth of Gross Value Added to the economy (£121.7 million in 2010).
The report highlights that organisations have been significantly affected by the economic downturn and reductions in funding. It reports on concern about the sustainability of groups as they work hard to meet increasing needs in Salford’s communities. The report also highlights the powerful contribution of collaboration both within the sector and with public sector partners to the continued success of organisations and communities in the City.
We hope that everyone reading this report will value the significant contribution that the voluntary sector makes to the City of Salford. We know that Salford’s communities are stronger because of the support and opportunities provided by social enterprises, voluntary organisations, and community groups across Salford. This report provides us with a strong incentive to commit to working together to ensure that the sector in Salford survives and thrives into the future.
The next State of the Sector report will be produced this year. Watch this space for updates!