The Third sector is a collection of sectors, groups, agencies and bodies which are often combined together. There is a difference between the voluntary sector and the third sector, as the voluntary sector does not include social businesses, the community sector, some charities, other support groups that are part of the 'non profit' areas, and some local authority groups. Government and local authorities are now referring to the Third Sector, rather than the traditional VCS. The UK Government even has a office of the third sector.
Voluntary sector organisations often have paid staff defined by a specific type of work, such as community development, infrastructure support, help in fund-raising, etc. The Community Sector is often managed by volunteers and its funding is often small and based in local communities. There is some 'blurring' between the voluntary and community sectors, as the sectors are often referred to as the 'VCS' (voluntary / community sector(s)). There is some debate, especially in Newcastle upon Tyne community sector whether VCS' are the same or different, and the definitions often vary.
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