Local Government

Local government and the Third Sector share the goal of creating strong, safe, attractive, and economically thriving communities. The interdependence between the state and the Third Sector is recognised by a new measure that assesses the local environment for a thriving third sector (National Indicator 7).  Third Sector Organisations provide a vital interface between the community and local government and are therefore key to effective community “engagement” and help local authorities perform their “duty to inform, consult and involve” local people.

Charities and social enterprises also help shape and deliver public services. Third Sector Organisations supply a wide range of services to local authorities, including Primary Care Trusts, and are therefore an essential component of intelligent commissioning. Local authorities also directly or indirectly support the Third Sector through capacity building activities including supporting local infrastructure organisations.  Local authorities therefore require good intelligence on the Third Sector.  GDS’s standard products and services provide intelligence on all incorporated and registered TSOs and GDS provide bespoke services to help local statutory bodies map and engage with “under the radar” TSOs.

• Third Sector engagement
• Third Sector Intelligence