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Introducing the voluntary sector
Introducing the voluntary sector

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5 Summary

This week introduced you to some of the broader issues around understanding the voluntary sector and, in particular, what is meant by ‘voluntary’. You have explored some definitions about the voluntary sector. You have read about some examples and how you might compare them. You were introduced to what is meant by ‘voluntary’. There was also an overview of the history of the voluntary sector and how taking a step back into the past can help to develop an understanding of the present day environment for voluntary organisations: despite wider changes in society, particularly with the development of a welfare state, there is still a need for voluntary organisations. You were also introduced to the ideas of value and distinctiveness.

In Week 1, you have learned about:

  • the different types of voluntary organisations in the UK
  • the three sectors – public, private and voluntary
  • how the voluntary sector might be defined
  • how the boundaries between sectors might be blurring
  • the origins of the voluntary sector
  • the importance of history in understanding today’s voluntary sector
  • what distinctiveness might mean in relation to the voluntary sector
  • searching online for information about voluntary organisations
  • applying ideas and frameworks to your own organisation or other examples.

Next week you will find out more about values – at an individual level as well as for the voluntary sector and organisations.

You can now go to Week 2.