3SG launches Members’ Voice survey - calling on the Third Sector to be heard

3SG has launched its annual Third Sector survey, Members’ Voice, inviting local charities, social enterprises and community groups to share their experiences, challenges and priorities for the year ahead.

Members’ Voice is the primary way 3SG gathers evidence on how the Third Sector in Bath and North East Somerset is currently doing, providing a key opportunity for organisations across the Sector to have their voices heard. 

The survey is designed to take a “temperature check” of the local Third Sector, identify emerging patterns and themes, and understand what support organisations most need.

The findings directly inform 3SG’s advocacy and influencing work, ensuring the needs of the Third Sector are effectively championed when representing members in discussions with the local authority, NHS boards and other strategic partners.

With over 260 member organisations, 3SG is aiming for at least 100 responses to ensure the results provide a meaningful and representative picture of the sector. We also welcome responses from local Third Sector organisations that are not 3SG members.

“This year’s survey, entitled Members’ Voice, remains a critical part of 3SG’s annual calendar,” said Kate Morton, Chair of Trustees at 3SG.

“It ensures we hear from all of you – our members – to highlight the current and emerging issues and challenges you are facing.”

“We know how busy everyone is, but taking a few minutes to complete the survey enables us, as an influencing organisation and a voice for the Third Sector, to support and advocate on your behalf. We also encourage members to share their stories of working within BaNES, showcasing the difference you make and the impact you have on residents’ lives.”

This year’s survey will explore a wide range of topics, including:

• Organisational capacity, concerns and reach

• Funding and finance

• Commissioning

• Cross-sector collaboration and partnerships

• Social prescribing (Impact Alliance Project)

• Social impact and social value evaluation

• Volunteering

• Workspace and venue requirements

• Use of wellbeing courses

• Future support needs

In a change from previous years, the survey is launching in February rather than November, in response to feedback and with the aim of increasing engagement and participation across the sector. The survey will remain open until Friday 27th March, with results shared in the new financial year.

3SG is encouraging one representative from each organisation to take part and to share experiences openly – including challenges, opportunities and examples of impact – to help build a strong, evidence-based picture of the Third Sector locally.

The Members’ Voice survey is now open to complete online and closes on Friday 27th March.

🔗 Survey link: https://bit.ly/3SGMV26

About 3SG:

Bath & North East Somerset Third Sector Group (3SG) is a charity supporting over 260 charities, social enterprises and community organisations across B&NES by providing 1:1 support, events, training, networking and advocacy. For more information, visit: 3sg.org.uk