Sharon shares an early update on the development of Wolverhampton’s VCS Strategy and future Covenant/Compact. The initial findings will feel familiar across the sector, highlighting fragmented and unstable funding, pressure on capacity and volunteering, and the need to strengthen trust, communication and collaboration. There is a strong emphasis on moving away from short-term, transactional funding towards longer-term partnerships that build sustainability, prevention and social value. While these challenges are not unique to Wolverhampton, the message was clear: this is the start of a shared journey, and progress will depend on open dialogue, learning from communities, and working together with a positive outlook.