Sharon shares highlights from the past year, including preparations for the 2025 UK Recovery Walk in West Park, with events starting 12–13 September, bringing the community together to celebrate recovery from drug and alcohol addiction. She also reflects on her recent visit to The Haven Wolverhampton, recognising the vital work of local services supporting women and children. Sharon emphasises the importance of supporting and valuing VCSEF sector services that rely on volunteers and lived experience to make a real difference in the community.

Sharon shares highlights from recent community events and sector developments, including the 5-year celebration of TNB Connect, supporting the Transgender and Non-binary community, and the South Asian Heritage Month panel at Molineux, featuring Black Country MPs discussing representation in politics. She also updates on national health developments, with NHS England recognising the VCSE sector’s role in inclusive, community-based care and engaging with Alliance42 to shape the future of Integrated Care Boards.

In her latest update, Sharon shares a snapshot of WVCA’s activity from January to July 2025 – including over 115 support interactions with 81 local VCSEF groups, nearly half of which were new to WVCA. Health, wellbeing, community cohesion and funding remain key focus areas.

In her latest update, Sharon reflects on the growing pressures facing the VCSEF sector and highlights new national developments including the launch of the Civil Society Covenant and proposals to improve access to government contracts through procurement reforms – both of which aim to create more meaningful partnerships between government and civil society.

In her latest blog, Sharon reflects on a turbulent few months in national policy, from delayed changes to disability benefits (PIP) to the upcoming abolition of NHS England and over 200 associated bodies, including Healthwatch England. She also highlights two important upcoming workshops – one on Community Activation (10 July) and another on Emotional Health & Wellbeing for Children & Young People (15 July) – as chances to collaborate and share insight.