Take part in Third Sector Trends to help us all understand the voluntary and community sector in the West Midlands

After another long period of ups and downs and twists and turns in the voluntary sector, Third Sector Trends is back to find out what’s going on.

This study of voluntary and community organisations, social enterprises, cooperatives, societies and amateur sport clubs (sometimes called the ‘third sector’. ‘voluntary sector, or ‘civil society sector’) started in 2010 and it takes place every three years, run by Durham University.

In 2022, more than 6,000 organisations took part in the study which runs right across England and Wales. But its focus is still very local – looking at how the voluntary sector develops and works in areas like ours. We’d really like you to take part so that we can build a better picture of what’s happening in the West Midlands.

The research paints a picture of how organisations work, what they achieve and how they feel about their future. This helps policy makers, funders and CVSs like ours to make good decisions on how to support the voluntary sector.

So if you’re an amateur sports, dance or gardening club, a village hall, a carers’ group, an arts organisation, a campaigning trust; or if you deliver social or health services, care for the environment or run a hostel or food bank – whatever you do, it’s all equally important and they would love to hear from you. It’s quick and easy to do on your PC, laptop, tablet or phone.

It’s completely confidential, incredibly relevant to the voluntary sector and those who support it. To take part, click here Third Sector Trends in England and Wales 2025.

If you have any questions – please contact Professor Tony Chapman, Durham University tony.chapman@durham.ac.uk