A new report from Peterborough’s voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) sector has highlighted both the critical role the sector plays in supporting residents and the increasing pressures it faces.
The findings come from the latest VCSE ‘Impact for Good’ survey, carried out between May and June 2025, capturing insights from nearly half of local VCSE organisations. The research provides the most comprehensive picture to date of the sector’s reach, strengths and challenges.
The survey shows a sector under growing demand but continuing to step up for local communities:
- 83% of organisations have seen increased demand over the past three years
- 43% say they do not have enough volunteers
- Over 20 local charities reported a reduction in donations as a key risk to their sustainability
A vital role in community resilience
Despite these challenges, the report confirms that the VCSE sector plays a central role in improving health, wellbeing and independence, with services spanning prevention, crisis support and community connection.
Collectively, organisations are reaching an estimated 30,820 people every month across Peterborough — from hosting social activities and clubs, to offering practical support, demonstrating the scale of impact delivered through community-led support.
This activity plays a critical role in helping residents stay well, independent and connected, and in reducing pressure on public services.
A key partner in prevention and tackling poverty
The findings reinforce the importance of the VCSE sector within the city’s wider system. Local authority strategies increasingly rely on strong partnerships with voluntary organisations to deliver early help, prevention and community-based support.
The report highlights that:
- The sector is a key contributor to prevention, independence and resilience outcomes
- Public sector services alone cannot meet demand at scale — partnership working is essential
- Understanding the sector's needs is vital to ensure sustainable upstream support
Council commitment to supporting the voluntary sector
Peterborough City Council has reaffirmed its commitment to working alongside the VCSE sector as a key partner in delivering better outcomes for residents.
Executive Director for Adult Services Stephen Taylor said: “Our voluntary and community sector is absolutely central to how we support residents in Peterborough.
"These organisations are often the first to respond to local need and the ones who stay alongside people for the long term.
"This research reinforces just how important the sector is to the resilience of our city, and why it is vital that we continue to work in partnership — strengthening support, improving collaboration and ensuring the sector can thrive in the years ahead.”
The findings will help shape future investment and support, including the development of an enhanced infrastructure offer, improved partnership working and more coordinated approaches across the system.
Have your say in the VCSE 2026 State of the Sector survey
Building on last year’s findings, organisations across Peterborough are now being invited to take part in the 2026 State of the Sector survey, helping to ensure that the voice of the VCSE sector continues to shape local decisions.
By sharing their experiences, organisations can:
- Help inform and influence decision-makers and system partners
- Highlight the real impact of funding, workforce and system changes
- Ensure the sector’s voice is heard during a period of significant local and national change
Looking ahead
The report recommends continuing to build this evidence base through regular surveys and ongoing engagement with the sector.
By working together, the council and its partners aim to strengthen the voluntary sector so it can continue to play its vital role in supporting residents and building a more resilient Peterborough.