Cornwall Voluntary Sector Forum

Who we are

About Cornwall VSF

Cornwall VSF was formed in 1992 when a small group of people came together to discuss issues for the sector in Cornwall. Since then, our membership has steadily grown and we now have members from the voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) across Cornwall. Our members provide a vast range of services, including commissioned public services, for the communities of Cornwall. We are the voice of VCSE organisations in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly; our aim is to work with others to create a thriving and effective voluntary sector. Membership is free and is open to any VCSE organisation based in or working in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. Members give us our mandate by shaping the direction of the charity at our AGM and by electing our Trustees. Cornwall VSF speaks as the independent voice of our members on a variety of important issues. We aim to effect positive change for the voluntary sector by focusing our lobbying efforts on elected officials and public sector bodies such as the NHS and Cornwall Council. A current focus is highlighting contradictions between government policies, for examples austerity measures, and the reality for VCSE organisations on the ground. We act independently and are not associated or affiliated with any other organisations, except the three sector umbrella bodies South West Forum, NAVCA and NCVO.

Our Values:

CVSF is underpinned by the following values. We expect our Board, CEO, and staff to demonstrate our values and lead by example to encourage the sector to adopt these behaviours:

• Authenticity
• Trusting
• Engagement
• Clarity
• Challenge

What we do

Collaboration: Cornwall VSF has strong productive relationships with a wide range of stakeholders in Cornwall.  We represent the VCSE on all executive Boards ensuring the VCSE voice remains clear and influential.  We broker and facilitate VCSE partnership working through our strategic, thematic, and local alliances. 

Influence: We produce surveys, consultation events, facilitate issue-based workstreams etc. to raise consciousness of the issues, barriers and constraints facing the VCSE sector. Collectively we can positively affect change and bring about transformation.

Communication: We have a wide range of communication channels and styles to suit the needs of a diverse audience.  We send regular e-newsletters to members with relevant information and updates for VCSE organisations of every size and interest. We also share news from our members through this vital resource and via our social media outlets. We amplify our members’ messages.

Events: We host events and conferences to keep people up to speed on the latest developments they need to know. These include workshops, training, and networking opportunities.  On 11 June we are hosting ’Co-creating Cornwall’s Future’.

Member services: We provide services and products such as our Charity Search Tool.  We provide support with specialist recruitment advertising, business and governance reviews, communication, and marketing services with reduced associated costs.