News

Across England, we are seeing a shift towards neighbourhood health, with the aim of moving care closer to communities and tackling inequalities. On paper, the vision is compelling. In practice, however, many neighbourhood models are falling short of their potential.

We know that trustees understand that strengthening financial resilience is crucial - yet many are exploring social investment for the first time, and want trusted guidance to build their confidence. Our latest blog with Good Finance helps you get started on learning more about social investment.

Across England, many communities are feeling the effects of disconnection and isolation. Economic insecurity, the loss of shared spaces, polarisation online, and ongoing inequalities have created conditions in which hate is flourishing and extreme politics are taking hold. Local infrastructure organisations (LIOs) are seeing this first-hand: an increase in hate incidents, growing anxiety among staff and volunteers, and communities struggling to feel safe and connected. At a moment when cohesion feels fragile, the role of LIOs has never been more urgent.

Across public services, regeneration and local democracy, “neighbourhoods” are becoming more prominent. From Integrated Neighbourhood Teams in health, to regeneration plans and new local governance models, the neighbourhood is being positioned as the place where services are delivered, and decisions are made closer to where people live.

Earlier this year, we launched our Allyship Programme – giving members the chance to explore equity, equality, diversity and inclusion through networking, training and online resources. NAVCA members volunteer to take part, and we support participants to feel equipped to take what they learn back into their organisations and communities.

When people take action on the things that matter to them — whether that’s litter-picking, running a local sports club, or creating spaces to talk about mental health — they build stronger, more resilient communities. Across the country, hundreds of thousands of organisations make up a vibrant voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) sector, doing vital work that helps people and places to thrive.‍ But what exactly does the VCSE sector do — and what do all those different parts mean?