Sharon’s latest update reflects on the growing pressure facing infrastructure organisations across the UK, just as the voluntary sector is being asked to do more. She highlights how LIOs like WVCA play a vital “glue” role – bringing the sector together, translating policy, amplifying voices, and ensuring organisations have collective influence rather than working in isolation. With the Council’s VCS Strategy in development, she stresses the importance of maintaining an independent, sector-led space where all voices are heard. Her focus is on staying professional, data-led and united, strengthening the foundations of the sector so it can remain influential, connected and better able to support Wolverhampton’s communities.

Sharon’s latest update reflects on the growing pressure facing infrastructure organisations across the UK, just as the voluntary sector is being asked to do more. She highlights how LIOs like WVCA play a vital “glue” role – bringing the sector together, translating policy, amplifying voices, and ensuring organisations have collective influence rather than working in isolation. With the Council’s VCS Strategy in development, she stresses the importance of maintaining an independent, sector-led space where all voices are heard. Her focus is on staying professional, data-led and united, strengthening the foundations of the sector so it can remain influential, connected and better able to support Wolverhampton’s communities.

Sharon’s latest update highlights the growing pressure on the VCSEF sector, as global events and rising costs continue to hit organisations, staff and volunteers. Discussions with MPs this week recognised the strain on the sector and the vital role it plays in supporting communities and social cohesion. There are early signs of potential solutions, including better funding approaches and stronger engagement with the sector, but this marks the start of what will need to be an ongoing conversation.

Sharon’s latest CEO update reflects on the many changes currently affecting the VCSEF sector and the growing importance of strong local infrastructure. Drawing on recent national conversations led by NCVO and NAVCA, she highlights the need for better representation, collaboration, data, and sustainable funding – particularly for smaller, volunteer-led organisations that play a vital role in their communities but are often furthest from decision making. Sharon also shares reflections from a recent health inequalities conference and invites organisations to continue these conversations at the upcoming VCSEF Alliance meeting later this month.

Sharon’s latest update reflects on the momentum of International Women’s Day while bringing focus back to the ongoing challenges facing Wolverhampton – particularly around dementia, social isolation, and health inequalities. She highlights the vital role of the VCSEF sector in supporting communities, shares insights from local partnerships, and spotlights inspiring work happening across the region. It’s a thoughtful reminder of both the progress made and the work still ahead, and how collaboration continues to drive real change in our city.

In her latest update, Sharon reflects on a busy start to the year, highlighting the WVCA’s recent International Women’s Day event which brought people from across Wolverhampton together to network, share experiences and celebrate the contribution of women in the community. She also attended a regional conference exploring autistic perception in Black and minoritised ethnic communities, which looked at inequalities in diagnosis, support and outcomes.