Volunteer Centre West Berkshire is pleased to publish our 2026 State of the Sector Report, providing a snapshot of the opportunities, challenges and priorities facing charities, community groups, social enterprises and volunteer-led organisations across West Berkshire.

Drawing on responses from 28 organisations working across a wide range of service areas, the report reveals a sector that remains resilient, collaborative and deeply committed to supporting local communities. At the same time, organisations report increasing demand for services, ongoing funding uncertainty, workforce pressures and growing challenges around volunteer and trustee recruitment.

The findings highlight the critical role the VCSE sector plays in supporting residents and helping communities thrive, while also demonstrating the importance of investment in both frontline organisations and the infrastructure that supports them.

The report identifies several key priorities for the coming years, including sustainable funding, volunteer and trustee development, organisational resilience, stronger sector representation, rural inclusion and digital development.We would like to thank every organisation that contributed to the survey and shared their experiences. Their insight will help shape our future support, advocacy and partnership work to ensure the sector remains strong, connected and able to respond to the needs of local communities.

Click on the links below to read the report.