VSNW are currently undertaking a piece of work researching various types of “community levy” models.

We are conscious that the term “community levy” is broad, however we are looking at models whereby a levy is potentially added to contracts and/or funding of some sort. This levy would be a percentage of the amount of money which is then used to be invested into VCFSE activity.

For example, the Greater Manchester VCSE Commissioning Framework talks about “a 1% Community Levy that is applied to all £1m plus tenders [in Greater Manchester]. The proceeds would be invested in a VCSE social value role in order to support intelligent VCSE market development and link to large-scale delivery.” (p.32).

Draft characteristics of what could constitute a “community levy” include:

1. A % of funds that are top-sliced

2. The investment is sizeable

3. More than one VCFSE organisations is invested in (possibly via CVS)

4. Investment scales up grassroots frontline delivery

5. Investment is aligned to local strategies

If your organisation is involved with a similar model, or if you are aware where similar models exist or have existed and would like to share this information with us for potential case studies, please contact Laura Tilston, Policy and Research Officer via email by Friday 14th October: laura.tilston@vsnw.org.uk