Third Sector Representation for Glasgow
Charities and community groups play a vital role in shaping Glasgow’s services. The Third Sector Representation Framework is in place to ensure that these voices are heard. This framework ensures that decisions affecting local people are informed by the sector’s experience, insight and community connections.
Why does representation matter?
Services for citizens of Glasgow are provided by different agencies such as the Council, NHS, the Police, and third sector organisations. Services achieve more when we work together.
Representation ensures we can:
- Understand issues better
- Target resources where they are needed most
- Design services to fill gaps and avoid unhelpful duplication
Glasgow Partnerships, where the third sector has a voice, include:
- Community Planning Partnership
- HSCP Integrated Joint Board
- 23 Local Area Partnerships
- There are also thematic partnerships covering areas like community justice, employability, alcohol & drugs, and children’s services.
What good representation looks like
Effective representation is about more than filling a seat. It’s about influence, accountability and connection.
We have six principles for making sure that it works well:
Accessibility
It should be easy for organisations to inform and be informed from partnerships
Inclusion
The diversity of the sector and their views should be reflected in partnerships
Accountability
Representatives should be selected fairly by the wider third sector and should be answerable to them
Communication
Representatives share regular feedback on discussions and developments
Relevance
The right networks and representatives connect to the right partnerships
Support
Representatives should be supported to carry out their role effectively
How can I ensure that our organisation is represented in Glasgow?
Representation is organised through networks of third sector organisations. Representatives are selected openly and transparently, usually through elections within these networks.
Thematic and Local Networks
If a relevant thematic or geographic network already exists, it leads on representation.
Glasgow Third Sector Forum
If no specific network exists, the Glasgow Third Sector Forum (GTSF) takes the lead.
Who can join the Glasgow Third Sector Forum (GTSF)?
- The Forum is open to all third sector organisations operating within the Glasgow City Council boundary
- Membership is free and each organisation gets one vote in elections and decision-making
- The Forum elects a Policy Committee to set priorities and respond to consultations
- It is supported by a Coordination Group that ensures communication and effectiveness
Learn more about the Glasgow Third Sector Forum, and register online:
Support for Representatives
We are developing training and resources to help representatives succeed in their role. Everyone is expected to follow the framework’s Code of Conduct, ensuring fair, inclusive, and accountable representation.
More Ways to Get Involved
- Join the Glasgow Third Sector Forum
Gain a voice in city-wide discussions. Open to any third sector organisation in the city.
Join the Forum - Take part in a Specialist Network
Join networks focused on your area of work or in your community.
Join a Network - Stand as a Representative
Represent the third sector in key partnerships.
Email policy.engagement@gcvs.org.uk for more information. - Use the Information Hub
Stay up to date, share views, and engage with reps (Coming Soon)
If you have any questions, please contact the team for support at policy.engagement@gcvs.org.uk
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