Bristol is a city of diversity where we champion the fact that we experience the same raw material of urban life in very different ways. Recognising the inequalities that exist across the city, inclusivity is at the heart of our approach to economic growth – and the insights of our voluntary and community sector are central to this.
Our city is full of volunteers, community groups and social enterprises doing life-changing work every day. They’re running dementia sessions in care homes, organising excursions for young carers, putting people on pathways out of homelessness, or running play sessions, support groups, food banks and advice sessions. They’re helping Bristol people weather its storms and enjoy its good times, while giving them a voice in local decisions.
To ensure inclusivity is central to the growth of the city, our One City Plan aims to use the collective power of public, business and voluntary sector organisations to solve key challenges and drive inclusive economic growth.
This makes the experience and outreach work of the VCSE sector critical, particularly in groups such as low-income families, young people, Black and ethnic minority groups, women, disabled people, and those at the sharp end of the housing crisis. Ensuring these voices are part of our growth – while addressing a skills gap which will unlock the potential that comes with inclusive growth – is critical to Bristol’s development.
The voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) sector in Bristol is diverse. It is home to large charities such as the Soil Association, a multitude of smaller local community organisations such as Hartcliffe and Withywood Community Partnership and Heart of BS13, as well as regional branches of national charities such as St Mungo’s and the Prince’s Trust.
The third sector provides a vital conduit for expertise as well as driving innovation to deliver services to those who need them and empowering communities to support themselves.
While recognising its challenges, Bristol strives to be a city which fosters equality of opportunity. Local VCSE organisations are critical in connecting and representing the most vulnerable, and exploring innovative ways to lift communities.
The council has recognised this with funding and in forming key partnerships with organisations such as VOSCUR and Black South West Network (BSWN) to provide critical support where it is needed. It has also recognised the importance of this sector in connecting with communities via the power of volunteering and giving networks, as well as the sector’s innovation in service delivery.
The city must continue to engage with its communities, especially those most disadvantaged by rising inequality. This will only be possible by building on the expertise of the VCSE sector, as well as supporting it with funding.
Using research by BSWN and the VCSE Strategy Group, we will ensure the needs of the sector are woven into the city’s economic plan.
“Together, Bristol’s Economic Strategy and the One City Plan provide an opportunity to be explicit about the kind of city we aim to become. They commit to inclusive growth, connected communities, equitable life chances, and climate action. Delivering on these missions requires growth that is rooted in place, shaped with communities, and measured by its impact on those most marginalised. The VCSE sector brings deep relationships and community trust that can unlock the agency and innovation essential to turning this ambition into reality – not simply as service providers, but as strategic partners in building an impact economy that works for all.”
Sado Jirde: BSWN director
