22/04/2026
Bradford District Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise (VCSE) sector statement for candidates in the May 2026 local council election.
Please share if you are an organisation who agrees with this statement
From small groups at the local community centre, right up to district wide mental health, drug and alcohol and welfare advice services, with everything in between, the VCSE sector has an impact in every ward of our District. The VCSE sector is a vital part of the fabric of Bradford District, working alongside our public sector partners, to ensure that the citizens of Bradford District can lead their very best lives.
Our large and vibrant VCSE sector includes 1489 registered Charities, Community Benefit Societies and Social Enterprises rising to over 5000 when we include unregistered charities, community associations, sports clubs and informal groups. VCSE sector turnover of the 699 largest groups in 2024-25 was over £176m and there are almost 16,000 registered volunteers.
We write this statement to those who are standing to be elected as Bradford District councillors to ask them to consider the following actions should they be successfully elected.
1. Implement the Civil Society Covenant:
We consider establishing and delivering against this local framework for government-voluntary sector collaboration as a top priority for the newly formed council.
2. Build on what works:
Build on existing and established initiatives, offering continuity to local communities and residents. Ensure that valuable and effective services are maintained and where changes are required, base them on evidence and benefit to communities. Continue to use the established co-production principles, working with the VCSE sector and local residents to develop services.
3. Listen to Communities Across All of Bradford:
Ensure decisions benefit entire Bradford district, not just central Bradford postcodes. Councillors must think beyond their immediate ward and consider impact on all postcodes. Listen to those doing the work on the ground, not just the loudest voices or those with most influence. Take a Bradford-wide perspective whilst representing local areas.
4. Recognise the VCSE sector as essential partners in delivering council priorities:
Local VCSE sector organisations possess the community connections, trust and expertise needed to translate strategic ambitions into meaningful outcomes for Bradford residents. We bring your vision to reality. No one sector can achieve our District ambitions alone. We need all our best efforts and to work collaboratively to provide joined up services, deliver better outcomes for and with our citizens and make the best use of our resources.
When the newly formed council is announced, we will be back in touch to bring this statement to life, sharing local stories to help you understand the value of the VCSE sector in your area, and how by working together we can improve the lives of local people in Bradford.
