MEDIA RELEASE

For immediate release

23 January 2012 

THIRD SECTOR RECOGNISED AT SHEFFIELD BUSINESS AWARDS

A new award was introduced at the recent Sheffield Business Awards to celebrate the work of third sector organisations in the city.

Voluntary Action Sheffield (VAS) was announced the winner of the Third Sector Award at the ceremony last Thursday evening, which is organised by Sheffield Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) in association with First for Business Magazine. 

Sue White, Chief Executive at VAS said, “I am very pleased that this category has been included within these prestigious awards as it is real recognition of the huge contribution that local third sector organisations make in our city. We are absolutely thrilled to have won the Award and it is a great achievement for our team of dedicated staff and volunteers”. 

Suzanne Liversidge, Sheffield Chamber of Commerce president, said, “Recognising and celebrating the work of the third sector is important to the Chamber as, not only do charities, social enterprises and not for profit organisations make up an important part of our membership base, but they play a vital role in supporting the Sheffield community.

“The purpose of introducing the award was to showcase talent, innovation and success in this sector and I would personally like to congratulate Voluntary Action Sheffield for doing just that – they are a thoroughly deserving winner.”

The Award was sponsored by The Adsetts Partnership which supports collaborative working within the voluntary sector.  Philip Bartey, Group Chief Executive said, “The Adsetts Partnership sponsored this Award in recognition of the important contribution the sector is making towards the national economy and the huge difference it is making to the people and communities we serve.

“We face many challenges and changes that affect the way we work and it is increasingly important that the sector works together in collaboration. Voluntary Action Sheffield has made a terrific contribution to the sector in terms of its innovative and dynamic approach, in galvanising the sector and in providing strong leadership during difficult times.  We believe that VAS are more than worthy of the Award and deserve due recognition for their work on behalf of the whole sector.”

Local charities St Luke’s Hospice and Freeman’s College were also shortlisted for the Third Sector Award. 

Ends  

PICTURE CAPTION:

Sue White, Chief Executive, VAS accepts the Third Sector Award from Philip Bartey, Group Chief Executive, The Adsetts Partnership.

Notes to Editors: 

1. Voluntary Action Sheffield (VAS) is a charity that supports the development of a vibrant and influential voluntary and community sector locally.  VAS provides a wide range of services, including specialist support, advice and training to over 900 voluntary and community organisations in Sheffield each year and promotes and supports volunteering within the city.

2. Sue White, VAS’s Chief Executive, is a member of Sheffield Executive Board and is supporting the SEB’s 10-year Sheffield City Strategy that is developing opportunities for living, learning, working and investing in Sheffield with the aim of making it a city of global significance by 2020.

Sheffield Executive Board is comprised of leaders from across the private, public, voluntary, community and faith sectors in Sheffield who are working together to make the right things happen for Sheffield.

For more information please contact Sarah Grindrod, Marketing & Communications Officer at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call: 0114 253 6625.