Strength in Collaboration: What the VCSE Sector is Telling Us Right Now

The VCSE sector continues to be a vital lifeline for communities—flexible, responsive, and deeply embedded in local need. But behind the impact, there are important conversations happening about how we work together, how systems support (or hinder) us, and where we go next.

Recent network discussions have highlighted both the strength of collaboration across the sector and the challenges that still need addressing.

The Power of Partnership

One of the clearest messages is that collaboration is not just beneficial—it’s essential.

From community-led mental health support to bereavement services, youth engagement, and energy advice, organisations are increasingly working across boundaries. The connections between public sector, VCSE, and community groups are strengthening, with a shared recognition that no single organisation can meet complex needs alone.

New partnerships are emerging in areas such as:

• Mental health and wellbeing support for marginalised communities
• Youth provision and co-produced services
• Community-based health and wellbeing initiatives
• Support for people experiencing bereavement

This collaborative approach is helping to build a more joined-up system of support, rooted in trust and shared purpose.

Shaping the Future: Food Support in Adult Social Care

There are also exciting opportunities for the sector to influence future policy and research.

A new project exploring food support in adult social care is seeking involvement from both individuals with lived experience and practitioners.

As highlighted in the project materials :

• The research focuses on support with shopping, meal preparation, and eating
• It includes services delivered by local authorities, community providers, and lunch clubs
• Participants will help co-design future research and approaches

For practitioners, the opportunity is equally important—bringing frontline insight into how food support is delivered and where gaps exist .

This is a chance for the VCSE sector to ensure that:

• Real experiences shape future systems
• Community provision is recognised and valued
• Solutions are grounded in what actually works