Renewed Greater Manchester VCFSE Accord signed

Building on a proud legacy of collaboration

Leaders from across Greater Manchester’s public sector and the voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise (VCFSE) sector have signed a renewed Greater Manchester VCFSE Accord, setting out a shared commitment to work together over the next nine years.

The new Accord (2026–2035) builds on more than a decade of collaboration between sectors, reaffirming the vital role of the VCFSE sector in shaping and delivering services that support communities across the city region.

At a time when many communities are facing increasing challenges, the renewed agreement recognises that strong partnerships are essential to improving outcomes and reducing inequalities. It provides a clear framework for how organisations will work together, grounded in shared values of honesty, ambition, accountability and trust.

A shared framework for change

The Accord focuses on three key priorities:

• Involve and Devolve – strengthening the role of communities in decision-making
• Resource and Enable – ensuring the VCFSE sector is properly supported and resourced
• Recognise and Value – championing the contribution and impact of the sector

Together, these priorities aim to create a more consistent, system-wide approach to partnership working that delivers meaningful, measurable change for people, places and communities.

A partnership across the system

The Accord has been signed by partners from across Greater Manchester, including the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, NHS Greater Manchester, Transport for Greater Manchester, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, local authorities, and the VCFSE sector through the Greater Manchester VCFSE Leadership Group.

All signatories have committed to embedding the Accord within their governance and leadership structures, helping to ensure that collaboration is not just an ambition, but a consistent way of working across the system.

Building on a strong track record

The renewed Accord builds on earlier agreements dating back to 2017, which first formalised the role of the VCFSE sector in Greater Manchester’s devolution journey.

Since then, the Accord has played a key role in strengthening the voice and influence of the VCFSE sector, supporting more inclusive decision-making and helping to shape services that better reflect the needs and experiences of local communities.

It has also contributed to practical developments such as improved funding approaches, workforce support, and new models of collaboration that bring together public services and community organisations.