Third sector calls for more support from Jersey’s financial sector

Charities in Jersey receive less than 2% of their income from corporate sponsorship, according to a new report.

The Value of the Third Sector report said it contributed £230 million to Jersey’s economy and that its contribution “often goes unnoticed”, the Jersey Community Foundation (JCF) said.

The JCF said Jersey’s third sector, which includes charities, not-for-profits, voluntary groups, social enterprises and housing associations, needed “greater engagement” from the financial industry.

Joe Moynihan, chief executive of Jersey Finance, said there had “always been different or alternative ways” to support the third sector.

He said: “We have always recognized how important it is for our industry to support our local community.

“Our member firms make a very positive contribution to the life of the island, as well as to the lives of communities beyond it, in a variety of ways – either through the firms or through the people who work there.

“We see a lot of hard work going on behind the scenes at our member firms, from volunteering and fundraising for community projects and charitable initiatives, to supporting educational, sporting and environmental programs and providing sponsorships.”

The Value of the Third Sector report was produced by JCF in partnership with Jersey Overseas Aid, Jersey Community Partnership and PwC Channel Islands.

JCF chief executive Anna Terry said the “true value” of the third sector often goes unnoticed.

She said: “This report shines a light on the incredible contribution of Jersey’s third sector not only to our economy, but also to the well-being of our island community.

“We hope this report will contribute to a greater understanding of the third sector and inspire greater collaboration and investment from across the island – be it through donations, volunteering or strategic partnerships.”

PWC said the £230 million figure “probably underestimates the full scale of the sector’s impact” as not all charities were included in the data.

It said the report did not take into account the “immeasurable benefits” provided through well-being, cultural enrichment and environmental protection.

The report added that respondents found there was insufficient support from the government and that it needed to “help close gaps” in access to technology and innovative digital solutions.

The government announced on Tuesday that it will giving £4.5 million to charities and voluntary organizations over the next three years.