SCVO responds to Holyrood debate on Scotland's Partnership with the Third Sector

Responding to the Scottish Parliament’s endorsement of a new Third Sector Partnership Agreement, David Livey, SCVO Policy & Research Manager, said:

"Too often public bodies overlook the voluntary sector in planning, decision‑making and delivery. Parliamentary backing for a new Third Sector Partnership Agreement marks an important first step towards changing that for good. “We welcome the cross‑party support for a new, formalised relationship with the voluntary sector, alongside a focus on improving the funding environment, delivering shared outcomes, and strengthening the sector’s voice in policy and service design.  

“We also welcome MSPs’ strong endorsement of sector’s independence. A healthy democracy, well‑supported communities and good policymaking all depend on the strong, independent voice that the voluntary sector provides. 

“We particularly welcome the commitment to co‑design the agreement with the sector, and to ensure it is inclusive of the full diversity of organisations across Scotland. That approach will be key to building a partnership that is meaningful and able to stand the test of time. 

“Ahead of the election, SCVO worked with the voluntary sector to develop a shared ask for a new, formalised partnership with the Scottish Government—one that is set in law. We look forward to working together to shape and deliver an agreement that meets those ambitions.” 

ENDS

Notes:  

In its 2026 manifesto, Scotland’s Essential Sector – Priorities for the next Scottish Government, the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) called for the new Scottish Government, its agencies and bodies, to commit to a new, formalised partnership with the voluntary sector. SCVO has been clear that this partnership should be underpinned in statute; accountable for delivery across public bodies; outcomes-focused; protective of the sector’s independence and aligned with Fair Funding principles.