New report explores VCFSE and combined authority partnership working across the North

The report has been coproduced with VCFSE leaders and infrastructure organisations from across the North West, North East, and Yorkshire and the Humber. It draws on survey responses and conversations from the Great North VCFSE Exchange in January 2026, reflecting lived experience, frontline insight and shared priorities from across our regions.

The findings highlight a varied landscape. In some areas, strong partnership structures, formal representation and clear leadership pathways are already in place. In others, there is still work to do to build the foundations for effective collaboration. Across all areas, there is a clear appetite to strengthen relationships, improve transparency and embed the VCFSE sector as a strategic partner.

A key output from this work is the VCFSE–CA Best Practice Checklist. This practical tool can support local areas to reflect on their current approach and identify opportunities to strengthen partnership working. It covers areas such as representation, sector organisation, equalities, strategic alignment, agreements, funding and partnership culture.

The report also highlights growing momentum around more formal partnership approaches, including accords, covenants and clearer commissioning frameworks, alongside opportunities linked to prevention, health, community assets and double devolution.

We would like to thank all partners across the North who contributed their insight and experience to this work.