Value and Values of the Sector

One of the most powerful findings to emerge from our 2005 consultation with voluntary and community organisations was a strong belief that there is a common cause or shared values that connects the sector. These values are expressed in many different ways but the essence is consistent: we believe in the power of people and communities to change their own lives and the lives of others.

• NCVO's vision, mission and values

Independence

Independence is a core value for all voluntary and community organisations. It is fundamental to most people’s understanding of the sector, and highlights the importance of organisations managing their own affairs, being accountable to their mission and their beneficiaries and acting in the best interests of both. Yet in recent years some have questioned whether closer working with government has undermined the sector’s independence.

NCVO’s report, Standing apart, working together , examines the myths and realities surrounding this question. This report, first published in 2004, explores the issues around voluntary and community sector (VCS) independence. It looks at what we mean when we
talk about independence, who and what can constrain independent action, the implications of these relationships and constraints, and makes suggestions for future action.  The Executive Summary (PDF 75KB) published July 2008 is now available to download.

Third Sector Network

In 2006 NCVO brought together umbrella bodies representing the wider third sector -housing associations, social enterprises, co-operatives, mutuals and trade unions - to explore potential common ground and scope for future collaboration. From these discussions it became apparent that many of the values that are at the heart of the voluntary and community sector are shared by other third sector organisations.

These shared principles and values are the foundations of the Third Sector Network, an informal alliance that brings together representative organisations to promote the interests of the sector more effectively, particularly at a strategic level.

• Third Sector Network: Statement of principles
• Third Sector Network: Background Briefing

For more details contact Belinda Pratten.