Information from... VAST
State of the Sector 2025 Report Launched!
VCSE parners, stakeholders and statutory sector agencies came together last week at The Dudson Centre, for the launch of the 2025 State of the Sector report.
The State of the Sector report offers VCSEs, stakeholders, partners, funders and decision makers up-to-the-minute intelligence about where our sector stands in a wider context.
It is hoped that the report will offer power to the elbow of all colleagues in both VCSE and statutory sectors when it comes to writing bids and reports, understanding what is unique about the VCSE sector in Stoke-on-Trent, and developing new activity.
Lisa Healings, VAST CEO said this year’s State of the Sector report captures a powerful truth:
“Stoke-on-Trent’s voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) sector continues to step up—time and again—for our communities. In the face of rising need, limited resources, and ongoing structural change, our sector remains resilient, innovative, and deeply
committed to making a difference.
Many organisations have found ways to grow their impact, even as they navigate complex funding environments and increasing demand. This is a testament to the creativity, determination, and adaptability of our sector.
This report also challenges outdated narratives. Our sector is growing, diverse, and dynamic. We are home to long-standing anchor institutions and a rising generation of younger organisations—many founded by people with lived experience—who are reshaping how we support our communities. Together, they form a vibrant ecosystem of care, advocacy, and action.
Collaboration is at the heart of this progress. The VCSE City Alliance, our work with statutory partners, and the shared commitment to co-production are all signs of a sector that is not only surviving but striving to lead. We are proud to support this collective effort.”
The full report can be viewed here.
During 2026, three ‘Lunch and Learn’ sessions will be held during January, February and March where VAST will share Ten Talking Points from our State of the Sector survey, building on insights collected during 2025 from over 100 VCSE organisations locally.
Rather than reviewing the report section by section, we’ll be presenting the takeaways in the form of Ten Talking Points that we feel are particularly insightful after considering the perspectives and evidence shared by VCSE organisations between June and September 2025.
There will also be plenty of opportunity to ask questions and make suggestions for future reports
