The Partnership Agreement follows a year-long review that was jointly undertaken by the council and the local third sector, which has also resulted in a new Grants Policy that establishes clear and transparent processes for payments from the council to the sector.

The two documents were approved by the council’s Executive Committee today, paving the way for the Partnership Agreement to be formally signed by the council and by Voluntary Action South Lanarkshire (VASLan) on behalf of the local third sector.

Council Leader Joe Fagan said: "The vision shared by the council and local voluntary organisations is to make South Lanarkshire the best place in Scotland in which the third sector operates.

“While we all acknowledge the, sometimes difficult, financial context in which we all operate, this vision recognises the absolutely vital role the local third sector can play in delivering services and helping our communities.

“This was never more obvious than when volunteers stepped up during the Covid pandemic, but their work continues, day-in day-out, and through this new partnership and grants policy we can reinforce our commitment to working together to deliver on the priorities of the council and our communities.”

The Partnership Agreement, which was co-produced with the local third sector facilitated by VASLan, sets out better ways of working together, including a commitment by the council to include the local third sector in strategic and service delivery discussions.

The Third Sector Grants Policy establishes three different types of grant – small, medium and investment – and outlines how they will be applied for and how the work they fund will be monitored. Both documents can be viewed here: Document.ashx.

Jimmy Wilson, Interim Chief Executive of VASLan, said: “Over the past year, we’ve seen genuine collaboration between South Lanarkshire Council and the third sector. The adoption of the Fair Funding Charter and the development of both the Partnership Agreement and Grant Policy mark a significant step forward in creating a fairer, more transparent, and sustainable relationship.

“These frameworks will help ensure that community voices and local organisations are central to how decisions are made and resources are shared. Together, we’re shaping a partnership that puts people and communities first.

 “This new framework shows what real partnership looks like, built on trust, fairness, and shared purpose. It’s a major milestone for South Lanarkshire’s local third sector and reflects a genuine commitment from the council to work alongside communities in shaping a fairer, more sustainable future.”