We are a membership organisation. We prioritise our members when we consult the sector to gain a better understanding of its needs, and determine how we can best support its activities.

Membership is free and without any formal commitment. However, we expect our members to act as channels of communication between VSNW and more local voluntary and community groups, so that information can be shared at all levels across the sector.

The benefits

  • By joining us your organisation will be a part of strategic voluntary sector network in the North West.

  • We will provide opportunities to meet voluntary organisations and share good ideas from all over the region.

  • Our relationships with VCFSE sector leadership groups and local government bodies provides access to important networks and decision-makers at regional level.

  • You can be part of policy debates and help to influence the development of the North West.

  • You’ll be the first to hear about our regional conferences and assemblies.

  • Membership is free.


How to join

If you’d like to apply for membership, please complete the membership form.

There are two types of Voluntary Sector North West membership. Before applying for membership please read the guidelines below to ensure you’re applying for the correct one.

Full membership

This is open to any voluntary, community organisation, faith, or social enterprise (voluntary) based in or working in the North West of England, that agrees to support and promote Voluntary Sector North West’s aims and to abide by the terms of its constitution and rules.   

Your organisation must be formally constituted as an autonomous, democratic organisation independent of national and/or local government and at least one of the following:

  • an umbrella and/or intermediary voluntary organisation with a development and/or support role towards other voluntary organisations; or

  • a regional or sub-regional voluntary organisation; or

  • a regional branch of a national voluntary organisation.

Alternatively, you can join as an associate member.

Associate membership

Associate membership is open to any individual or to any organisation which does not meet the criteria for full membership of Voluntary Sector North West, but which agrees to support and promote the purposes of Voluntary Sector North West and to abide by the terms of its constitution and rules. Associate members receive all the rights also offered to full members (mailings, conferences and discounts) with the exception of voting or nomination rights.

If you have any further membership related queries please contact us at: info@vsnw.org.uk