Third Sector Support Review

Overview

The Edinburgh Partnership is conducting a review of how it supports and works with third sector organisations in Edinburgh. This includes how we deliver grant funding and commissioning, how we ask third sector organisations to monitor and report on what they do, and what in-kind support we provide.

We recognise that a well-functioning third sector is essential for Edinburgh, and that third sector organisations are our partners in delivery of a vast range of services to all communities in the city. The third sector directly supports Edinburgh residents with person-centred services that are difficult for the public sector to provide or where trust in the public sector is low. We know how big a difference the third sector makes especially in building personal resilience and helping vulnerable people enjoy good, rewarding lives.

Recent funding changes, inflation, increased national insurance costs, and other factors have made this a difficult year for the sector, and we know that urgent action is needed.

As part of our commitment to help the sector, the City of Edinburgh Council has dedicated £3.5m this year to help organisations impacted by unexpected loss of grant funding or reduced commissioning. Visit the Council’s website for more information about the Third Sector Resilience Fund.

This review is happening now to allow the findings to influence the decision-making processes of Edinburgh Partnership organisations for the next financial year. Results will be shared with participants and the wider third sector, and with the Council’s Policy and Sustainability Committee in August.

This survey is for third sector organisations of all types – voluntary organisations, social enterprises, and charities. This survey is specifically for those organisations to complete, but you may wish to attend one of the in-person meetings listed below. You can both attend a meeting and complete the survey. Please note that places at “workshops” are limited and you must reserve a spot by contacting communityplanning@edinburgh.gov.uk.