Waste Strategy factsheets
The third (voluntary) sector
- Government aims to make greater use of third sector expertise in waste management and to capitalise on the multiple benefits – social, economic and environmental – it can bring to communities.
- Government wants the third sector to win a greater share of local authority waste management contracts.
Key elements of the new policies
Capacity building support through WRAP and Futurebuilders for third sector organisations operating in the waste and recycling sector.
What is the third sector?
The third sector encompasses a wide range of voluntary, social enterprise and community organisations which reinvest their surpluses to further social, environmental or cultural objectives. It includes community organisations, charities, social enterprises, cooperatives and mutuals.
What are the third sector’s strengths?
Third sector organisations have particular strengthsin prevention, awareness raising, re-use and separate kerbside collection, alongside providing a range of social benefits.
Does Government expect local authorities to give third sector organisations preferential treatment in bidding for waste contracts?
No. But the Government expects authorities to consider the value of these organisations, and the services they could provide. The onus is on third sector organisations themselves to show – with WRAP’s help where necessary – that they can deliver a first rate service.
How will WRAP build the sector’s capacity? What resources are available?
Details will be worked out during this year’s business planning round, but it is envisaged that work will involve a combination of targeted support to grow businesses and raising awareness of what the sector has to offer potential customers such as local authorities. We expect WRAP to develop its work programme in consultation with representatives of the third sector.
Will Government provide grants to support community recycling?
Government envisages that day to day waste management work by third sector organisations will be paid for through contracts won in open competition with the commercial sector.
Page last modified:
18 June 2007
Page published: 24 May 2007