The Glasgow Third Sector Forum (GTSF) is the main network for third sector organisations in Glasgow. The Forum provides opportunities for these organisations in the city to connect and collaborate, ensuring that the third sector is an effective partner in important city-wide partnerships. It was established to promote stronger, more democratic participation by the third sector in local policy development, partnership working, and decision-making processes. 

GTSF Elections 2026 – Voting opens on 19th October 2026.
Want to vote for your representatives? Join the Glasgow Third Sector Forum by 16th October to take part.

The Role of the Glasgow Third Sector Forum

The Forum brings together third sector organisations from across Glasgow to: 

• Identify and promote the sectors priorities
• Strengthen communication between the wider third sector and those participating in partnerships
• Improve accountability and transparency in representation
• Contribute to policies, plans and decisions that affect communities across the city
• Create meaningful opportunities to participate in local policy development and partnership working

Who can join?

Any third sector organisation operating within the Glasgow City Council boundary can join.

• Membership is free. 
• Being a member of GCVS or another network in the city doesn’t automatically make you a GTSF member – you need to apply separately to join the Forum.  
• We define a third sector organisation as an organisation that meets the following criteria:
  • Has a positive social, environmental or public benefit
  • Is self-governing and responsible for all decisions about the organisation
  • Is independent from UK, Scottish or local government and from any political party
  • Is non-profit distributing, with no private financial gain from either ongoing income or upon closure
  • Is run by a Board or Committee whose members are all or mostly unpaid for their governance role
• Once you join, you stay a member until your organisation resigns or is removed

Membership rights and responsibilities  

• Each organisation gets one vote in elections and decision-making.  
• Members are expected to follow the Forum’s code of conduct. 

If you have any questions, please email policy.engagement@gcvs.org.uk for support.