3SG’s three year plan sees refreshed focus and energy

Bath & North East Somerset Third Sector Group (3SG) has launched  a brand new, three year strategy setting out the charity’s mission to champion and amplify the impact of Third Sector organisations across B&NES.

3SG supports over 260 charities, social enterprises and community groups in its membership network and has grown quickly over the past four years. With a brand refresh and the organisation about to launch a new website; plus a new office in central Bath to accommodate its larger team and the creation of ThirdSpace, 3SG’s boardroom and hot-desking offer to support its membership and diversify income, having a clear vision for the future will be crucial over the next three years.

Becky Somerset, Director at 3SG, explains: “The charity sector environment remains challenging, with reduced funding, increased competition, rising costs, contract changes and new taxation pressures. As a small charity, we face many of the same funding and sustainability challenges as our members.

“3SG plays a unique role in connecting local charities with key partners, including local Government, health systems, local businesses and education providers. To maximise impact, we must focus on what matters most, strengthen collaboration, and build genuine partnerships across the sector. 

“Long-term investment in 3SG’s core infrastructure is essential to avoid mission drift and maintain effective support. Together, we are stronger and better positioned to support a thriving sector.”

The new strategy is based on five key pillars: sector infrastructure support, voice and advocacy, volunteering, ThirdSpace and strengthening 3SG.  Strategic aims and objectives include increased advocacy work, creating more collaboration and partnerships, promoting sustainable practices and supporting members to adapt to challenges. 

The strategy was developed through consultation with members and key stakeholders and highlighted a need for 3SG to focus on innovative and digital approaches, strengthen advocacy, review governance and organisational structures to support future growth, build sector confidence in digital tools and AI to improve efficiency and shared learning. Also emerging was the need to enhance volunteering opportunities, brokerage services and business engagement. 

Kate Morton, Chair of Trustees at 3SG, said: “This strategy shows a clear direction of travel for 3SG's next three years as the sector navigates a changeable landscape both locally, nationally and even globally.  There is a lot to do and we are excited to get started. The addition of ThirdSpace also means that we have a dedicated, Third Sector Hub in B&NES. 

“Charities offer human connection, shared values and meaningful impact - and we must do everything we can to protect that.”

A digital copy of 3SG’s strategy, including the organisation’s values and delivery outcomes can be found here.