On 30 April, we are inviting charities, community groups, and faith organisations in Sutton to take part in a unique Unconference—an open, interactive event designed to spark discussion, share insights, and co-create solutions.

The Unconference will mark the official launch of our new report, Evolving our Ecosystem: A Review of Sutton’s Charities, Community and Faith Organisations, Their Needs, Potential, and Challenges. This independently conducted research, commissioned by Community Action Sutton and Volunteer Centre Sutton, brings together findings from over 100 local organisations, representing the diversity of size, structure, and activity across Sutton’s charity, community, and faith ecosystem.

This is the first report of its kind in nearly a decade, capturing the voices of local leaders, volunteers, and key partners such as the NHS and Sutton Council. The findings reveal both the strengths and challenges faced by organisations working tirelessly for our communities.

Some of the key themes explored in the report include:

• Building Connection – How can we foster collaboration and overcome fragmentation across sectors?
• Sustaining People & Resources – With financial pressures and volunteer retention challenges, how do we support a thriving workforce?
• Financial Sustainability – With over 40% of organisations experiencing income shortfalls, what funding models and support structures are needed?
• Collaboration & Commissioning – How do we develop partnerships that are fair, effective, and sustainable?
• The Role of Infrastructure – What support is needed to strengthen Sutton’s ecosystem of charities, community groups, and faith organisations?

The Unconference format means that you shape the conversation. This is not a traditional conference with keynote speakers and presentations. Instead, we will use a mix of structured and open discussions, allowing participants to raise the issues that matter most to them. Whether you want to share your experience, propose ideas, or connect with new collaborators, this event will provide the space to do so.

By attending, you’ll:

✔ Be the first to hear the findings of this vital research
✔ Take part in discussions about the future of the sector in Sutton
✔ Connect with fellow charity, community, and faith leaders
✔ Explore practical ways to collaborate and strengthen our ecosystem

We encourage anyone involved in Sutton’s charity, community, or faith sector to attend.

Whether you are a small volunteer-led group, a well-established charity, or a local leader, your voice matters in shaping the future.

📅 Date: 30 April
📍 Location: Sutton United Football Club, Gander Green Lane, Sutton, SM1 2EY.
🎟 Registration: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/suttons-state-of-the-sector-unconference-tickets-1279538386759?aff=oddtdtcreator 

Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of the conversation and help shape a more connected, resilient, and impactful sector in Sutton.