Sector Backbone: Infrastructure Networks

Supporting Newham’s Voluntary, Community, Faith, and Social Enterprise Sector


Infrastructure networks are the backbone of the VCFSE sector, providing support, coordination, and advocacy at local, regional, and national levels. In Newham, these networks strengthen community action, build organisational capacity, and connect local voices to decision-makers.

💡 What Infrastructure Networks Do

Infrastructure networks act as connectors, enablers, and advocates, with core functions including:

  • Capacity Building: Training, funding advice, governance support, digital tools, and volunteer management.
  • Coordination & Networking: Bringing voluntary and statutory sectors together for collaboration, joint funding bids, and shared learning.
  • Representation & Voice: Championing grassroots needs in strategic forums locally, across London, and nationally.
  • Data & Insight: Collecting and sharing evidence on community needs, impact, and sector trends to inform policy and service planning.

⭐️ Key Infrastructure Partners in Newham

Newham benefits from strong connections to regional and national bodies, including:

  • NCVO (National Council for Voluntary Organisations): National training, guidance, and advocacy.
  • NAVCA: Support for local infrastructure organisations across England.
  • London Plus & London CVS Network: Collaborative platform for borough-level voluntary sector hubs.
  • London Funders & Newham Funders Forum: Connecting funders to local groups to streamline investment and impact.
  • NEL VCFSE Collaborative: Partnering with NHS North East London to embed VCFSE leadership in health and care planning.
  • One Newham: The borough’s recognised local infrastructure network supporting voluntary and community organisations directly.

💡 Why Infrastructure Matters in Newham

In a diverse and growing borough, these networks:

  • Support small and emerging groups to thrive with trusted guidance
  • Ensure community voices are heard in council, NHS, and London-wide strategies
  • Strengthen the local ecosystem through partnerships and shared resources
  • Promote resilience, equity, and long-term sustainability in community-led work

🧭 Looking Ahead

Through continued collaboration, infrastructure networks in Newham aim to:

  • Build a stronger, more connected community ecosystem
  • Champion fairer funding for local groups
  • Drive collaborative innovation across the sector

📢 Get Involved

Organisations in Newham can engage with infrastructure networks to access training, funding guidance, advocacy support, and collaboration opportunities. By joining these networks, groups can strengthen their impact, share learning with peers, and help shape local and London-wide decision-making.