Towards a Third Sector Strategy for Manchester

Mission Statement To define and develop a thriving Third Sector, that is recognised as an equal partner and fully engaged in delivering value to the environmental, economic and social capital of Manchester; making it a sustainable, healthy and cohesive city.

Why have a Third Sector Strategy? To plan the development of a thriving Third Sector To challenge and improve expectations of the Third Sector To define the real value of the Third Sector to the City To recommend ways in which the Third Sector’s contribution to Manchester’s future success can be increased

What do we mean by the Third Sector? Non-governmental Value-driven Not-for-profit ethos and reinvest financial surpluses to further charitable objectives Diverse Grass roots and neighbourhood groups Voluntary, community and faith- based organisations Charities Social enterprises Co-operatives

Who’s Involved?

Progress to Date Positioning paper: Defining the context for developing a Third Sector strategy for Manchester Marketing the Third Sector Audiences Implications for action and next steps

Marketing the Third Sector To challenge and improve perceptions and expectations focusing on: – Issues that the sector believes are part of its unique value and offer but which require careful marketing and skilful presentation – Issues specific to the Third Sector that are perceived by others in a negative light, or at too low a level.

Audience To identify potential audiences for a Third Sector strategy: – who they are – how to engage them – “mini-strategy”

Actions and Next Steps Four key outcomes and several outcome indicators have been identified. Key actions have been developed focusing on promoting the work of the Third Sector Strategy Group and gathering information to promote the Third Sector.

Manchester Community Central Infrastructure is a service to the sector A component of the Third Sector Strategy Get involved!

For more information about the Third Sector Strategy Group contact: John Hartshorn (Chair)