The State of the Community and Voluntary Sector in Powys: Resilient, Valued but Under Pressure

Across Powys, community and voluntary organisations are playing an increasingly vital role in supporting the health, wellbeing and resilience of local communities. Every day, they help prevent crises, reduce isolation, support independence and provide vital services that ease pressure on statutory health and care services.

But the organisations delivering this support are themselves under growing pressure. Demand is increasing, needs are becoming more complex, and rising costs, recruitment challenges, ageing infrastructure and uncertainty over future funding are affecting organisational resilience.

Our recent State of the Sector survey provides an important insight into these challenges and the realities facing community and voluntary organisations across Powys.

The findings show a sector that remains committed, adaptable and innovative, with staff and volunteers continuing to respond to growing needs. However, many organisations are increasingly using reserves simply to sustain existing services, while some are reducing provision or considering closure.

The report highlights a clear message: the sector is essential to prevention and community wellbeing, but cannot continue to absorb increasing demand without greater support.

To protect vital services and prevent further pressure shifting into health and social care, the report calls for greater long-term investment, stronger partnership working and more sustainable approaches to commissioning.

Read the full report here: The State of the Voluntary Sector in Powys. Resillient, Valued but Under Pressure. August 2026