About VAN

VAN works with policy makers, funders and politicians to improve the environment for everyone participating in the arts, and we provide information and training to those who participate in the voluntary arts sector. This includes over 300 national and regional umbrella bodies, and through them, their member groups of local voluntary arts practitioners.

Why VAN?

V - Voluntary - because those we support take part in the arts and crafts for pleasure not payment

A - Arts - because we work with those involved in the participatory arts and crafts

N - Network - because we work with the representatives of around 300 national organisations and through them their members, to ensure that the voice of the voluntary arts is heard by the four UK Arts Councils and the Arts Council of Ireland, national and local governments, local authorities and the regional arts funding structures.

Our services include

• A quarterly newsletter, Update, providing information on opportunities, seminars, funding and news about members
• Briefing Sheets offering advice on issues relevant to the sector
• A comprehensive, up-to-date website
• Specialised arts management training and research into the organisational development needs of the sector
• Consultation Responses - we respond to government and relevant organisational initiatives

VAN centres

• VAN has five centres
• Voluntary Arts Link is based in Cardiff and works across the UK and Republic of Ireland
• The other four teams are based and work in England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales
• Information from the Voluntary Arts teams can be accessed by clicking the relevant link on the top right of your screen

Our equal opportunities policy

VAN Equal Opportunities Policy (doc - 28k)