by Wolverhampton Voluntary & Community Action | Jan 23, 2026 | Messages from the CEO, WVCA News
Sharon’s latest update reflects on a strong start to the year, highlighting the energy and diversity of voices at the first VCSEF Alliance Meeting and the ongoing need for space within the sector to connect, share and learn from one another. With this in mind, WVCA is planning a dedicated networking event and the return of ‘Needs and Offers’ to help organisations share resources and support. The update also reinforces the vital role of local infrastructure organisations in navigating consultation and partnership working, while stressing the importance of collaboration in the face of ongoing capacity challenges. Sharon also shares insights from the Safer Wolverhampton Partnership, flagging future opportunities such as small community safety grants, and encourages the sector to stay engaged, connected and in touch.
by Wolverhampton Voluntary & Community Action | Jan 9, 2026 | Messages from the CEO, WVCA News
As we move into 2026, Sharon reflects on the growing pressures facing the VCSEF sector, from rising costs and reduced funding to fewer volunteers and increasing demand for services. Nationally, many charities are scaling back, and locally in Wolverhampton long-established groups are feeling the strain, raising important questions about how small grassroots organisations can be supported now and in the future. Sharon highlights the vital preventative role the sector plays across health and social care and makes a clear call for action to match the rhetoric around civil society. She also invites colleagues to continue the conversation at the next VCSEF Alliance Meeting.
by Wolverhampton Voluntary & Community Action | Dec 19, 2025 | Messages from the CEO, WVCA News
One and All, wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
by Wolverhampton Voluntary & Community Action | Dec 5, 2025 | Messages from the CEO, Sector News, WVCA News
Sharon highlights the growing pressure on VCSEF organisations, who are facing rising community needs alongside limited funding. After meeting the Heath Town Tenants and Residents Group, she stresses how vital community-led groups are as the NHS moves towards neighbourhood-based care through Integrated Neighbourhood Teams. She also notes the government’s Civil Society Covenant, which recognises the sector’s value but offers no direct funding. With major reforms underway, Sharon calls for genuine partnership working and proper investment to ensure Wolverhampton’s communities are supported.
by Wolverhampton Voluntary & Community Action | Nov 21, 2025 | Messages from the CEO, Sector News, WVCA News
In her 21 November message, CEO Sharon Nanan‑Sen reflects on the pressure facing the voluntary and community sector — with funding competition rising and many organisations needing to rethink income streams — and underscores that the city’s VCSE ecosystem remains resilient, with nearly 60 new groups supported this quarter, a high proportion led by people from BAME backgrounds. She emphasises how vital partnerships, infrastructure support (like bid-writing workshops) and the work of the Wolverhampton Voluntary & Community Action volunteer centre remain as charities navigate change together.
by Wolverhampton Voluntary & Community Action | Nov 7, 2025 | Messages from the CEO, Sector News, WVCA News
It’s been a busy few weeks for WVCA, with packed agendas and valuable conversations across the city. We’ve shared sector updates at the Council’s Love Your Community meeting, hosted a well-attended VCSEF Alliance Meeting focused on youth services, and continued delivering our Hospital Discharge Social Prescriptions Grant Programme, which has already distributed £50,000 to local groups. Read Sharon’s latest update for highlights, successes, and what’s next for the VCSEF sector in Wolverhampton.
