In November 1983 a large number of voluntary organisations attended a successful conference about resources for voluntary organisations, organised by a group of local people supported by the Greater Manchester CVS.

As a result of this, representatives of various sections of the voluntary sector decided there was a need for some form of co-ordinating organisation in the borough. It was clear that in a borough the size of Wigan improved communication between groups and the sharing of skills and information could increase the effectiveness of these groups. In addition the local authority had no one organisation it could liaise with in order to pass on information or to find out the needs and opinions of the voluntary sector.

A steering group, made up of members of voluntary organisations, took early action to encourage greater co-ordination between voluntary sector groups. They organised a workshop on the practicalities of Urban Aid applications and compiled a directory of voluntary organisations in conjunction with the Leigh Centre for the Unemployed.

The group considered how some form of Council for Voluntary Service could be set up, and as a result of their work a constitution was adopted in 1984 at the inaugural meeting of the CVS, based in Leigh.

1984 – 1995

The original Staff team was structured as a co-operative. Early project achievements included:

• Establishment of Wigan and Leigh Pensioners Link
• Support for new Wigan Community Credit Union Development Agency
• Community Information projects in the City Challenge programme
• Community Enterprise awareness and development activities

From 1990 - 1995 CVS received funding from the Urban Programme amounting to approximately £76,000 per annum.

1995 - 1996

A review of CVS highlighted various difficulties and problems that existed internally. Insecurities relating to funding also became apparent due to the expiry of Urban Programme funding.

A partnership agreement was developed between CVS and the Social Services department of Wigan Council. Funding from Wigan Council was agreed at a level of £70,000 per annum for 3 years from 1^st April 1995. A project officer was appointed to monitor progress and the service level agreement.

The staff base was restructured and a Team Leader position was developed.

1996 - 1997

Wigan and Leigh CVS moved to new premises in Wigan Town Centre. Seven new members of staff were employed, replacing 9 previous posts. Procedures relating to contracts, business plans and other policies were reviewed and implemented.

The Volunteer Bureau was launched as independent agency

1997 - 1999

The Management Committee was revised, and a Mission Statement produced. Achievements included

• A funding directory produced in partnership with Wigan MBC.
• Setting up of a CVS payroll service for local voluntary organisations.
• Administration of 3 grants programmes for voluntary and community groups (SRB 3,4, Community Health Grants)

1999-2001

Three new members of staff were recruited bringing the total to ten, and an internal restructure created 3 staff teams. CVS purchased and moved to their own premises on Church Street in Leigh. The Volunteer Bureau closed.

A Local Compact was developed in partnership with Council and other local   organisations

2001-2002

Long-term funding was secured for the Healthy Living Programme and the Community Activities Programme. The local COMPACT was launched, and representation on the Local Strategic Partnership strengthened. Three new posts were created, bringing the complement to eleven staff and four volunteers. The Community Capacity Building Project came to an end, and the Community Empowerment Programme hosted, to build networks and to support community sector involvement in the LSP.

2003-2005

Neighbourhood renewal funding for BME groups development was secured. Re-organisation led to the appointment of a Deputy Director, doubling as CEP manager. A local authority review was undertaken, as a result of which internal management systems were modernised. The Investment in people Quality Standard was achieved

2006-2008

Big Lottery and Coalfields Regeneration money was secured for three year training programme. Funding received from Children’s Fund for a children and young people’s team. An Assistant Chief Officer post was funded through Children’s Fund money.

Healthy Living Programme finished, IT support service no longer funded as a result.

Big Lottery funded Health and social care project begins. VInvolved youth volunteering programme begins.

Investment In People accreditation renewed.

91 Church Street closed, and an office at Pennyhurst Mill in Wigan opened, giving CVS bases in both Leigh and Wigan.