State of the Third Sector in Leeds – Updated with 2024 data
The latest State of the Third Sector in Leeds report is sponsored by TSL, co-funded and co-produced by Forum Central and Voluntary Action Leeds and prepared by Nifty Sustainability CIC.
Building on previous research in 2020, this new 2024 report gives an insight into the reach, scale and diversity of the third sector of Leeds. It also highlights the sector’s strengths and some of the current challenges it faces. It demonstrates that in its diversity and range of services, the third sector continues to play a vital role in our city’s communities and ecosystem.
The report shows much to celebrate: a sizeable Third Sector working across important areas of work with diverse beneficiary groups. However, it also shows a picture of a sector – which like our public and health sector partners – is under significant stress.
Between 2022 and 2024, the updated data shows:
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An estimated 3,375 third sector organisations in Leeds, including registered charities, CICs, mutuals and unregistered groups receiving grants
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Over 90% of organisations contributing to the social determinants of health, with 1,870 working in health and care
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Total income for registered charities increasing slightly, but remaining below 2020 levels and not keeping pace with inflation
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Around 31,500 volunteers, 8,095 trustees, and 6,465 paid employees, showing shifts in the workforce since previous reporting
For further findings, view the 2024 infographic below which includes:
- What has changed and why it matters relating to:
- The composition of the Sector, its overall size, the number and size of organisations, and the income it generates
- Communities, beneficiary groups, and areas of work
- Funding and finance
- People working and volunteering in the Sector