Nearly 200 delegates gathered for the sell-out launch of a groundbreaking report that highlights the immense economic and social contributions of Jersey’s third sector.
The event saw the presentation of preliminary findings, key insights and recommendations from the Value of the third sector report, commissioned by Jersey Community Foundation in partnership with Jersey Overseas Aid, Jersey Community Partnership, and undertaken by PwC Channel Islands, drawing on a recent sector survey. Although the full report is set to be published at the end of the week, attendees were given an exclusive preview of the most significant data, underscoring the crucial role the third sector plays in Jersey’s economy and community.
The report reveals that Jersey’s third sector — including charities, non-profit organisations, voluntary groups, social enterprises and housing associations contributes an impressive £230 million of economic value to the Island. Despite its substantial economic footprint, the third sector’s contribution often goes unrecognised.
PwC analysts stressed that the £230 million figure likely underestimates the full scope of the sector’s impact, as not all third sector organisations were captured in the data. In addition, this GVA figure does not account for the immeasurable benefits that the third sector delivers in terms of wellbeing, cultural enrichment and environmental stewardship. When considering these indirect contributions, the true value of Jersey’s third sector far exceeds the initial estimates.
One of the more striking revelations was the diversity of income sources for the sector. Survey respondents reported 35% of income from trading activities, including a wide range of retail and commercial operations. The Island’s business sector makes a financial contribution from grants and donations, although sponsorships are surprisingly low at only 2% of third sector earned income. There is certainly an opportunity for greater engagement with the finance industry, both in terms of financial contributions and the volunteering of professional skills and services.
A robust panel discussion explored how Jersey’s financial sector can foster a culture of philanthropy and significantly increase lower-level recurring donations from Islanders, which account for proportionately less income to the sector than in the UK. Jersey Community Foundation CEO, Anna Terry, and other sector leaders urged the financial community to step up, whether through donations, CSR programmes or skills-based volunteering.
The Government was also called upon to help bridge gaps and alleviate challenges, particularly around access to technology and innovative digital solutions (like adopting fast digital payment systems) that are not currently readily available to the Jersey market.
The event concluded with a keynote address by Daniel Chan MBE, PwC UK’s Charities Leader, who outlined the importance of transparent charity reporting, best practices for effective governance and ways to safeguard against fraud.
Jersey Community Foundation CEO, Anna Terry, said: “This report shines a light on the incredible contributions of Jersey’s third sector, not only to our economy but also to the wellbeing of our Island community. The findings reveal just how significant the sector’s impact is, yet its true value often goes unnoticed.
“Our hope is that this report will cultivate a deeper appreciation for the third sector and inspire greater collaboration and investment from all corners of the Island – whether through donations, volunteering or strategic partnerships. By working together, we can ensure the long-term sustainability of the sector and continue to enhance the quality of life for everyone in Jersey.”
