About Us

Who We Are

CVS Inverclyde is the Third Sector Interface for Inverclyde. Our role is to connect, strengthen and support local charities, voluntary organisations and community groups.

We understand that local people have the skills, knowledge and energy to make positive change. When they come together through community groups, voluntary organisations or social enterprises, these strengths can be realised, and the result is communities that are better places to live.

Together, the third sector plays a crucial role in building active, resilient and well-supported communities.

Our Vision

We envision an Inverclyde where the third sector is recognised, valued and equipped to lead meaningful change.

Through strong partnerships and active community involvement, we want to build a place where people influence the services that shape their lives, where organisations work well together, and where local strengths drive social and economic wellbeing for everyone.

Our Values

Collaboration

We believe that no single agency or sector is capable of creating real social change in isolation; collaboration across agencies and communities is essential.

Diversity and Inclusion

We value diversity, recognising the different assets of communities, organisations and individuals we support and promoting inclusion across all that we do.

Excellence

We are proud of the contribution of Inverclyde’s third sector. We will lead by example and behave in a way that builds confidence amongst our stakeholders.

Leadership

We will pursue excellence in all that we do, in order to provide the best possible support and leadership to the third sector.

Integrity

We aim to be ethical, honest and open in the way we work; we value our independence and believe it to be essential in supporting and representing the third sector.

What We Do

We support Inverclyde’s charities, community groups and social enterprises to develop, strengthen and deliver their work. Our support is available exclusively to CVS Inverclyde members, ensuring providing focused, long-term assistance.

Members can access funding and governance advice, volunteering support and help to explore social enterprise ideas. We also connect organisations with local partners and ensure the third sector is represented in key strategic discussions.

Through practical support, knowledge and strong partnerships, we help members make a lasting impact in Inverclyde.

Our Work Includes

Being a central source of knowledge for the third sector, influencing local and national policy and ensuring a strong strategic voice with both local and national planning structures

  • Building the capacity of volunteering, community groups, voluntary organisations and social enterprises to achieve positive change through tailored support and organisational development

  • Strengthening connections between third sector and public services, including Inverclyde Council and Inverclyde HSCP, to improve coordination and respond to local priorities

  • Hosting the Community Link Worker service, supporting patients facing non-medical challenges and connecting them to appropriate local services

  • Working collaboratively across sectors to help Inverclyde’s third sector grow, innovate and thrive