Become a member - Voluntary Sector North West

We are a membership-based organisation. We prioritise our members when we consult the sector to gain a better understanding of its needs, and determine how we can best support its activities.

Membership is free and involves no formal obligation. However, we ask that members act as communication links between VSNW and local VCFSE groups. This helps ensure information, opportunities, and policy developments are shared effectively across the sector.

How to join

If you’d like to apply for membership, please complete the membership form below. There are two types of Voluntary Sector North West membership. Before applying for membership please read the guidelines below to ensure you’re applying for the correct one.

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Benefits of becoming a VSNW member:

By joining VSNW, your organisation will become part of a strategic regional network of VCFSE organisations
Have opportunities to connect voluntary organisations and share good practice across the region
Gain a better access to regional networks and decision-makers through our relationships with VCFSE sector leadership groups and local government bodies
Contribute to policy debates and influence the development of the North West
Receive priority access to our events, including regional conferences and assemblies

Full membership

Full membership is open to VCFSE organisations that are formally constituted, independently governed, and operate on a not-for-profit basis. They also must support VSNW’s aims and agree to adhere to its constitution and membership rules.

In addition, organisations must fall into at least one of the following categories:

An umbrella or intermediary body providing support and/or development to other VCFSE organisations in the North West
A regional or sub-regional VCFSE organisation, or a regional branch of a national organisation operating within or across the North West
A VCFSE organisation whose beneficiaries are in the North West, and with a presence within the North West.

Full members have the right to vote at VSNW’s Annual General Meeting and may nominate individuals for board membership.

Associate membership

Associate embership is available to individuals, or organisations that do not meet the criteria for Full Membership, but who support VSNW’s aims and agree to its constitution and membership rules

Associate members receive all standard membership benefits, including mailings, invitations to events, and access to resources. However, they do not have voting or nomination rights.

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