The Scottish Government has released its latest Programme for Government earlier than usual this year, setting out its policy priorities for the coming parliamentary period. The document outlines a series of planned actions across a range of sectors, including health, education, the economy, and climate change.
For the third sector, the programme includes a renewed commitment to fairer funding, echoing long-standing calls for more sustainable financial support for voluntary organisations. The government also reaffirmed its intention to progress the Community Wealth Building Bill, which aims to strengthen local economies by giving communities more control over resources and decision-making.
However, notable by its absence was any reference to volunteering. This omission has raised concern among sector leaders, who stress the crucial role volunteers play in delivering services and supporting communities across Scotland.
For a deeper analysis of what the Programme for Government means for the third sector, we recommend reading this excellent breakdown from Glasgow Council for the Voluntary Sector (GCVS): Scotland’s Programme for Government 2025/26 – Glasgow Council for the Voluntary Sector
We’ll continue to monitor and share developments as more details emerge.
