Harrow Voluntary Sector Forum: Wed 23rd Sept 2026

How can we make sure that Harrow VCS representation is meaningful, inclusive, effective and strong?

There are over 976 charities and social enterprises registered in Harrow. The majority of these are small to medium. This makes VCS representation complex. This forum meeting will explore the questions below as a launchpad for deeper work on representation in Harrow.

• What do we mean by the voluntary and community sector?
• What do we mean by VCS representation?
• Who are the people representing the VCS?
• How are the current representatives getting their information to adequately represent?
• Do we feel we are strongly represented? How would we know?
• How can VCS groups that are time poor and not directly involved influence local decision-making?
• What tangible things could we do so that anyone representing the VCS has strong principles, expectations and responsibilities?

There will be overviews of VCS representatives from some of Harrow’s infrastructure bodies, including Harrow Together, Voluntary Action Harrow, and Young Harrow Foundation. What to Expect:
• Networking
• Reflections and follow-up from the last forum
• Presentations on subjects slected by you
• Small group discussions and shared learning

What to Bring:
• Leaflets or information about your organisation (to share)
• Ideas about what you can offer and what support you are looking for

What is the Harrow Voluntary & Community Sector Forum?
The Harrow VCS Forum is a meeting for local voluntary and community organisations of all sizes. The forum brings together local groups, organisations, community workers and partners to identify local issues of mutual interest and need, and work collaboratively to find solutions.

Date: Wednesday, 23rd September 2026
Time: 9.30am - 12.30pm
Venue: Victoria Hall, Sheepcote Rd, Harrow HA1 2JE

This event is being co-ordinated by Voluntary Action Harrow in partnership with Victoria Hall