Key Facts and Stats

Background

The Voluntary Action Fund (VAF) was formed and constituted as a charity and registered company in December 2003. The organisation evolved from the former Unemployed Voluntary Action Fund (UVAF) which was established in 1982, to "develop voluntary opportunities for unemployed people of all ages" as part of a programme of UK Government initiatives to address racism, poverty and unemployment. In response to the changing nature of our work and the evolving economic and social environment in Scotland, the mission and objectives of the organisation were updated, and the Voluntary Action Fund was created.

Since its inception VAF has been a vital independent grant making body, distributing funding to voluntary and community organisations across Scotland. In addition to managing the grant application process and distributing grants, VAF has used its considerable knowledge and expertise to provide essential development support to funded organisations to help them make a real difference in their communities.

Over the last 28 years The Voluntary Action Fund has disturbed more than £22 Million to Scottish charities. Our work is testament to how often small cash injections coupled with support and organisational development activities can reap amazing rewards. A small grant in 1982 helped to create the Women's Aid Network, and a succession of small grants helped establish the roots of the present day CVS network in Scotland. VAF has broken new ground in volunteer practice and development and broken the mould of volunteers being one of the first to work with those with mental health issues, the unemployed, vulnerable families and the homeless. In 1984 through VAF funded we helped to establish Home-Start in Scotland - Home-Start is now the UK's largest Family support organisation with 360 branches across the country.

Through networks, fora and partnership working, VAF works with other voluntary sector funders and public agencies to improve relationships between funders and funded organisations and promote learning and best practice.