SCVO: Championing Community Voice and Sector Strength in Sandwell
SCVO (Sandwell Council of Voluntary Organisations) plays a vital role in Sandwell’s social infrastructure. It is not only a support organisation but also a convener, champion, and enabler for the borough’s voluntary and community sector. From grassroots groups to social enterprises and faith-based initiatives, SCVO works behind the scenes to ensure the sector has the tools, visibility, and voice needed to create lasting change.
The organisation’s work is guided by five strategic aims: strengthening and supporting the local sector; improving access to services for all residents; helping communities make the most of their local strengths and assets; ensuring community voice is heard in local decision-making; and building a sustainable, future-ready organisation.
“As a local CVS, we work on a number of concurrent fronts, both operationally and strategically. No two days are ever the same,” they explain. Whether responding to challenges in health and family support or exploring the implications of emerging technologies like AI, SCVO remains agile and forward-thinking. “We want to help grow the sector’s role in supporting Sandwell’s residents to be healthier and happier, and to amplify its voice in strategic conversations. At the same time, we are building practical skills for strong and resilient community delivery.”
They understand that change takes time and requires trust, partnership, and shared effort. “You can only go as fast as the slowest component,” they reflect. “It’s about helping people see the value in true collaboration so that it is transformative and beneficial to all involved, rather than being viewed as competitive, especially when resources are limited.”
This collaborative ethos is at the heart of their work. “Outcomes are often stronger when delivered together. No single organisation can support every resident with every issue they face,” they explain. “Collaboration ensures beneficiaries receive more joined-up support, and partners grow by learning from one another.”
SCVO’s role as a facilitator and convener helps unlock the knowledge, experience, and potential held within communities. “Communities often have a wealth of collective knowledge that can lead to life-changing experiences, but they sometimes need help to focus and harness those resources effectively. That’s where we come in.”
Embedding lived experience into programme design is a growing priority. “Those who live closest to the challenges often have the skills to solve them. It’s essential to hear their voices so support can be tailored, co-designed, and co-delivered to benefit everyone involved.”
As a CVS, SCVO is always navigating the realities of funding. One of its distinct roles in Sandwell is its commitment not to compete with the sector for service delivery funding, unless no local group is available to meet the need. “This helps us maintain our impartiality and act as a trusted broker for the sector.”
Looking to the future, they are exploring how developments like AI can benefit the sector and its communities. “With great power comes great responsibility. We need to ensure emerging technologies are used effectively and fairly, so everyone benefits, not just those with easy access.”
SCVO is keen to continue exploring how collaboration can be strengthened across the region. “We all bring different things to the table and can grow as a result. The journey and the destination both matter, and it’s vital that we travel together.”
Being a member of the West Midlands Funders Network helps make this vision possible. “The willingness to share experiences and knowledge is hugely valuable. It’s something we appreciate greatly as part of our membership.”
