The latest research from the Third Sector Trends report highlights a growing challenge across the voluntary sector: small charities are experiencing the sharpest declines in trustee and volunteer numbers. Organisations operating on very limited budgets face real risks to governance, service delivery, and long-term stability. While larger charities may be seeing some recovery, many grassroots groups continue to struggle to recruit and retain the people they rely on.
The report also shows a fall in organisations investing in training for staff, volunteers, and trustees. When capacity is tight, development can be pushed aside, yet it is central to safe practice, confident leadership, and organisational resilience. For groups that depend on regular – and often unsupervised – volunteers, accessible training makes a tangible difference.
Practical support is available to help small organisations respond. The Elements Training Portal, created by North Tyneside VODA, Connected Voice, and Northumberland CVA, has expanded to include Community Action Northumberland, Durham Community Action, Inspire South Tyneside, and Sunderland Voluntary Sector Alliance. This partnership ensures that organisations from Northumberland to Durham can access free, flexible courses on governance, safeguarding, volunteer management, and more – all designed with the VCSE context in mind.
In North Tyneside, volunteers and trustees can also access fully funded, accredited online courses through High Speed Training, thanks to UKSPF investment. Subjects range from first aid and mental health awareness to equality, food safety, and digital skills, offering a straightforward route for individuals to build confidence and capability.
Alongside these, VODA provides training through our Sector Connector programme and the North Tyneside Mental Health Alliance, giving local groups practical, relevant development opportunities throughout the year. View our Training Calendar here. For those outside of the North Tyneside, contact your local infrastructure organisation to see what training opportunities are available (see the NAVCA find a member portal to find your local LIO).
Keith Hardy, VODA’s Deputy CEO, says:
“Volunteers and trustees are the backbone of local charities. By making the most of free, high-quality training, small organisations can strengthen their skills, build confidence and continue to deliver vital services to their communities.”
At a time when small charities are being asked to do more with fewer people, the need for strong volunteer, staff, and leadership development cannot be overlooked. Making the most of free, high-quality training is one of the most effective ways for organisations to strengthen their foundations and continue to serve their communities.
Read the Civil Society article summarising the Third Sector Trends report here.
