Stockport launches VCFSE Alliance

Stockport has announced the launch of the One Stockport Voluntary, Community, Faith, and Social Enterprise (VCFSE) Alliance as part of work to advance community inclusion in the borough.

The Alliance’s work will align with the borough’s One Stockport, One Future vision to make Stockport the best place for everyone to live happy and healthy lives in helping to shape the future of Stockport.

The One Stockport VCFSE Alliance brings together diverse organisations from across the sector in the borough, and will focus on elevating the sector’s influence in strategic decision-making and ensuring community voices are heard at every level.

Stockport’s VCFSE sector has been a beacon of support for local communities, and the Alliance will build upon this success by:

• Amplifying Community Voices: Ensuring that the voices of local residents and organisations are heard and reflected in strategic planning and decision-making.
• Increasing Representation: Providing a platform for a broad range of VCFSE organisations, from grassroots initiatives to larger enterprises, to have their voices represented at all levels.
• Fostering Equity and Inclusion: Supporting efforts to reduce inequalities and create a fairer, more inclusive Stockport for all.

The Alliance will be chaired by the Chief Executive of Sector 3 and will initially meet on a quarterly basis. Its membership includes key representatives from a wide range of organisations, such as the Stockport Women & Girls Network, Faith Network, Marbury Road Edible Garden, Stockport Race Equality Partnership, ARC and Stockport Council, ensuring broad representation across the borough’s diverse communities.

The Alliance will serve as one of Stockport’s six strategic partnerships, sitting alongside the Economic Alliance and Listen! Youth Alliance. By fostering closer collaboration between the VCFSE sector, public bodies, and businesses, the Alliance aims to ensure that Stockport remains a leader in community-driven innovation and social impact.

Jo McGrath, Chief Executive, Sector 3, said:

“The launch of the One Stockport VCFSE Alliance marks an exciting new chapter for Stockport. By coming together as one, we can ensure that the voices of our communities are heard, and their needs are met. This is a true partnership that will help shape the future of Stockport.”

Cllr Mark Hunter, Leader of Stockport Council, said:

“Stockport’s VCFSE sector has always been a vital part of our community, and the Alliance will strengthen this even further. It will ensure that we can work more closely together to address the challenges we face and create a healthier, happier borough for all.”