Can’t find what you’re looking for?
We’re constantly making improvements to the 4C UR Future CAREERS PORTAL.
Have a suggestion for something you’d like to see? Let us know!
Sector Briefings - Third Sector & Social Value
For more information on the Third Sector & Social Value sector, download our print-ready PDF:
DownloadSector Briefing
The 'third sector' is a name used to refer to organisations such as charities, social enterprises, and other types of community organisations and clubs that operate for the benefit of their service users and stakeholders. Organisations in the third sector contribute to the success of our economy, provide support and services to local individuals and communities, and are key to generating social value.
Social value is defined as the positive change or impact an organisation creates in the economic, social, and environmental wellbeing of the individuals they serve or the communities in which they operate.
Key facts
- In the UK, the third sector generates approx. £75 billion per year.
- There are over 7,000 registered voluntary, community, and social enterprise companies in NI, employing over 53,000 people.
- In 2019/20, 28% of the NI adult population completed volunteering activities.
Skills & Attributes
As well as qualifications and experience, there’s a range of skills and attributes employers look for in their employees. These skills can help you succeed in many careers, but these are particularly useful for this sector:
- Enthusiasm
- Teamwork
- Communication Skills
- Commercial Awareness
- Resilience
- Organisation Skills
- Creative & Innovative Thinking
- Flexible & Adaptable
- Empathy
- Collaborative
- Ethical