Third Sector Trends is a major long-running study of the voluntary sector in England and Wales. It began in 2010 and the survey is repeated every three years.  In 2022, over 6,000 voluntary organisations took part and so far in 2025 there have been over 7,750 participants (and we now hope to reach at least 8,000).

This will provide unprecedented opportunities for time-series and spatial analysis on key issues of concern to the voluntary sector, local government, the health service and businesses which contribute financially or with in-kind support to charities and social enterprises.

We rested the survey campaign in August, but are now back and put out a reminder on 1st September to our lists of charities.  Next week, many community foundations across the country are going to help build the samples in their local areas too.

The survey will remain open until 30th September and we still need you to take part so that we can build a balanced picture for the area within which you work.

Whether you’re big or small – thriving, struggling or just going along as normal – we need to hear from you. It’s quick and easy to do, interesting and really helps to build a picture about how the voluntary sector responds to change and initiates change in society.

So if you’re an amateur sports, dance or gardening club, a village hall, a carers’ group, an arts, music or heritage society, a campaigning trust; or if you deliver social or health services, care for the environment or run a hostel, refuge or food bank – whatever you do, it’s important to us.

The study is big (6,000+ responses in 2022) and runs right across England and Wales. But its focus is still very local – looking at how the voluntary sector develops and works in areas like yours – whether the interests you serve are focused in a neighbourhood/village – or span national/international boundaries.

It’s completely confidential, incredibly relevant to the voluntary sector and those who support it and only happens every three years. So please tell us how it’s going and have your say on what you think the future holds.

To take part, click here:  Third Sector Trends in England and Wales 2025  

If you want some more detail before you start,  go to this page Third Sector Trends