Why you should fill in the GM State of the VCSE Sector 2026 Survey

Author
Anne-Marie Marshall, Services Manager
Salford CVS
 
On 26th January, the Greater Manchester VCSE State of the Sector 2026 survey opens. 

It is an important opportunity for voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) groups and organisations across Salford and Greater Manchester to explain what is happening on the ground. The findings will be used to influence public bodies, funders and commissioners, so it is vital that they understand the reality of the sector’s work, pressures and impact.

"Your work matters and we want to make sure it's seen, heard and celebrated. When you respond to this survey, you help show the real impact our sector makes. You help build evidence that demonstrates what communities need and what can be achieved. You make sure your voice – and the voices of the people you support – helps to shape decisions across Greater Manchester. The stronger our evidence, the better we can all advocate for our sector and support the case for funding and working with us." Salford CVS

Previous results

The last State of the Sector report was published in 2021, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. At that time, many organisations had to change their purpose, adapt their services and find new ways of working at speed. The 2021 report showed how COVID-19, Brexit and wider inequalities forced organisations to rethink what they did and how they did it. 

Since then, things have not become easier. The cost‑of‑living crisis has created huge pressure, with almost half of VCSE organisations nationally drawing on their financial reserves to stay afloat. Rising costs, reduced income and increased demand for help have made survival difficult for many VCSE groups and organisations. 

Vital for advocacy

In Salford, the State of the Sector survey has been vital to our advocacy at Salford CVS for investment in the VCSE sector. Since 2021, we have continued to manage our flagship Third Sector Fund on behalf of NHS GM ICB (Salford) despite ongoing NHS pressures. 

In addition, we have secured grant and programme funding to VCSE sector, examples include:

However, these strengths are at risk if funders and decision-makers do not have an accurate understanding of the challenges faced by VCSE groups and organisations. Many are experiencing funding cuts despite increased demand for their services, due to the lasting impacts of the pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis on their service users. Without proper evidence, these issues can be ignored.

Evidence

The 2026 survey will update the picture and provide evidence that can influence where investment goes and how support is offered. It will help show the value of the VCSE sector, highlight the pressures it faces, and ensure the work you do is understood and recognised.

Your input

By completing the survey, you ensure your group or organisation’s reality is included. Your knowledge and experience help build a stronger case for better support, fairer funding and more informed local decisions. Taking part is one of the simplest and most effective ways to help shape a better future for the VCSE sector in Greater Manchester.

For more information on the survey see our State of the Sector page

Any questions please contact Joe Kendal

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