3rd Sector Supported Volunteering Programme

South Lanarkshire Council has completed the award process for the 3rd Sector Supported Volunteering Programme, aimed at addressing health inequalities and social mobility. The programme is focused on enhancing volunteering opportunities aligned with community initiatives within South Lanarkshire, UK. As a regional or local authority, South Lanarkshire Council has employed a limited procurement method without issuing a call for competition, citing technical reasons for the absence of competition and the unique capabilities of the selected supplier, Voluntary Action South Lanarkshire.

The award was confirmed on 14th August 2025, with a contract valued at £540,000, signed on 12th August 2025, indicating the active status of the procurement stage. This tender presents substantial opportunities for businesses involved in the third sector, community planning, and employability initiatives. The focus is on building a robust volunteering infrastructure, making it particularly suitable for enterprises with expertise in social services and employment support programmes.

The involvement of Voluntary Action South Lanarkshire, an established third sector interface, highlights the opportunity for synergy with local organisations in South Lanarkshire. Companies within the sector can leverage this programme to enhance their service offerings by engaging in structured and goal-oriented volunteering placements, thereby contributing to social objectives and expanding their business reach through the council's employability network.