The VCSE sector in Greater Manchester refers to the Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise organisations that work towards positive social impact. These organisations include charities, non-profits, social enterprises, community groups and the community work of faith groups. It is sometimes referred to as the third sector or the not-for-profit sector. Voluntary organisations engage with a huge range of issues – from homelessness to specialist medical research. Most focus on a particular issue that needs solving, such as climate change or unaffordable housing, or a specific group in society who require support and representation, such as women facing domestic abuse. Other organisations may work on a range of issues, but apply a particular philosophical and political filter.
Voluntary organisations achieve their aims through a wide range of activities, such as providing services or other forms of direct support and advice to the groups they help; for example running a women’s shelter or providing counselling. Some also aim to achieve long-term or systemic change. They may work at a local or national level, or globally. The aim of voluntary organisations is to fulfil their mission and work towards the greater good in some specific way, rather than to make a profit. This often means they prioritise things differently than a business would do. A voluntary organisation is run by an independent board who decide on strategy and priorities. There are no private shareholders and it is independent of government. VCSE organisations strive to play a full and equal part in the development and governance of the Greater Manchester city region.
The GM State of the VCSE Sector report 2021 identified that in the voluntary community and social enterprise (VCSE) sector, there were a total of 17,494 voluntary organisations, 75,610 paid employees and 496,609 volunteers.
Why work in the VCSE Sector?
Working in the voluntary, community, charity, and social enterprise sector can offer a range of benefits, both personal and professional. It can be deeply fulfilling, providing opportunities for personal growth, making a positive impact, and contributing to positive social change. Here are some of the key advantages:
Sense of Purpose
Many people are drawn to work in this sector because it provides opportunities to make a meaningful difference in the world, contributing to causes they are passionate about and addressing social or environmental issues. It can be stimulating and rewarding work, with a real sense of fulfilment. The work is value-driven, prioritising ethics over profit so you always know you are supporting a good cause and helping the lives of others.
Personal Fulfillment
Working in roles that directly impact individuals or communities in need can bring a deep sense of satisfaction and fulfillment, knowing that your efforts are improving lives and making a positive impact.
Skills Development
The sector offers opportunities for personal and professional growth, allowing individuals to develop a diverse range of skills such as project management, fundraising, advocacy, communication, and leadership.
Variety of Roles
From frontline service delivery to back-office operations, the sector offers a wide range of roles suited to different interests, expertise, and career aspirations. This variety allows individuals to explore different areas and find roles that align with their skills and passions.
Collaborative Environment
Working in the voluntary sector often involves collaboration with diverse stakeholders, including volunteers, community members, government agencies, and other nonprofits. This collaborative environment fosters teamwork, creativity, and innovation.
Flexible Work Environment
Many organizations in this sector offer flexible working arrangements, including part-time roles, remote work options, and flexible hours, allowing individuals to achieve a better work-life balance.
Networking Opportunities
Working in the sector provides opportunities to build networks and connections with like-minded individuals, professionals, and organizations, which can be valuable for career advancement, collaboration, and support.
Emphasis on Values
Nonprofits and social enterprises typically operate based on values such as compassion, social justice, equality, and sustainability. Working in this sector allows individuals to align their work with their personal values and principles.
Learning Opportunities
The sector is dynamic and constantly evolving, offering opportunities to learn about new issues, approaches, and best practices in areas such as community development, social innovation, and advocacy.
Recognition and Appreciation
While financial rewards may not always be as high as in other sectors, individuals working in the voluntary sector often receive recognition and appreciation from the communities they serve, as well as from colleagues and supporters, which can be highly rewarding in itself.
Improving health, well-being and care outcomes
The sector is an important partner for statutory health and social care agencies and plays a key role in improving health, well-being and care outcomes. The sector helps to encourage co-production in the creation of person-centred, community-based health and care which promotes equality for all. It also enables the voice of people with lived experience and those experiencing health inequalities to inform national policy making and shape the delivery of services. Their input is essential to a vibrant local health economy.
Emma (Strategic Lead for Population Health at 10GM) tells us why she enjoys working in the VCSE sector.
Magda, Community Connector at Europia, tells us about her journey from client, to volunteer, to staff member.
Anushka, from the volunteering team at Macc tells us why she wanted to shift into the sector – to put people and social change at the heart of its work.
Kathryn, a fundraiser from Bolton Hospice tells us what she loves about her job – no two days are the same and it’s a joy and a privilege to work with such a wonderful team.
