Small Charities Advisory Panel x3

NCVO are a membership community for charities, voluntary organisations and community groups in England. Together we champion voluntary action.

We’ve been here for over 100 years. We have over 16,000 members, made up of all causes, shapes and sizes. From big charities to local sports clubs, all of our members aim to make the world a better place.

The Small Charities Advisory Panel (SCAP) launched in March 2023.

It has played an integral role in championing the voices and experiences of small charities. It recognises the vital role that small charities play in civil society and ensures that they can continue to access tailored help, support and advocacy.

We define a small charity as a voluntary or community organisation with an annual income of less than £1m.

SCAP was formed following the closure of the Foundation for Social Improvement (FSI). The panel:

• provides strategic oversight
• holds NCVO and partners accountable to the intended legacy of the Small Charities Coalition (SCC)
• takes the SCC closing report Small and Mighty on the needs of small charities into consideration
• ensures that the wider support offer for small charities is comprehensive, responsive and joined-up. This includes support from funders and other infrastructure bodies
• amplifies small charity voices across the sector and in decision-making forums.

The panel upholds the following four principles from the Small and Mighty report.

1. If you support or fund small charities, say so upfront.
2. Take time to understand and tune into the reality of being a small charity.
3. Build trust by creating space for relationships.
4. Think small, advocate ambitiously.

Following a recent review, it was decided that panel membership will be exclusive for small charity representatives.

There are currently five members of the panel. We’re looking to recruit at least three new members.