About VAI
What we do
For over 50 years, Voluntary Action Islington (VAI) has helped build a stronger voluntary and community sector in Islington - because thriving local organisations mean better support for the people and communities who need it most.
We support hundreds of charities, community groups and voluntary organisations to become stronger, more effective and better connected.
Our work spans four key areas:
- Capacity Building & Organisational Development - We provide training, advice, resources and practical support to help charities and community groups thrive.
- Volunteering & Community Action - We promote volunteering and community action, helping people connect, contribute and make a difference locally.
- Leadership & Advocacy - We champion Islington's voluntary and community sector, helping local organisations influence decision-makers and ensuring community voices are heard.
- Partnerships & Collaboration - We bring organisations and partners together to share knowledge, build relationships and create positive change.
With local organisations facing rising demand, increasing costs and tougher fundraising conditions, this work matters more than ever. Supporting the organisations at the heart of our communities means they can focus on what they do best - meeting local needs and improving lives.
Strategic Aims 2024-2027
VAI’s Strategy 2024-2027 is an ambitious programme which sets out how we will work with the local Voluntary, Community, Faith and Social Enterprise (VCFSE) sector to deliver positive and lasting benefits for many communities across the borough.
To achieve our vision, we are focusing on four strategic priorities.
1. Effectiveness & sustainability
To support the development, effectiveness and sustainability of Islington's VCFSE.
2. Strengthen the community
To enable and strengthen volunteering, social action and community resilience.
3. Influence policy & decision making
To facilitate stronger partnership working across the VCFSE to influence policy and decision making.
4. A model of best practice
To run VAI responsibly, effectively, and efficiently as a model of good practice.
Meet the Team
Our staff, trustees and volunteers bring together a diverse mix of skills, experience and local insight. Many live, work or volunteer in Islington, giving us a deep understanding of the communities we support and the challenges they face.
Staff, trustees and volunteers, VAI Strategy Day July 2025
Celebrating 50 Years of VAI
VAI has been supporting lcoal activity in Islington for over five decades.
In 1970 a group of local people committed to improving the lives of people in Islington came together to create a new voluntary body, which became known as the Islington Council of Social Service (ICSS), later renamed Islington Voluntary Action Council in 1977 (IVAC), then Voluntary Action Islington from 2009 (VAI).
The document below tells the story of our first 50 years and looks forward to the next 50.
We also celebrate the thousands of Islington residents whose lives have been shaped and enhanced by the work of VAI.
How it all began
The inaugural meeting of Islington Council of Social Services was held on 10th February 1971 in Islington's Council Chamber with over 120 representatives.
I recall we were, at the time, homeless! We soon acquired a lease of some long empty offices on the top floor of 309 Upper Street, and it wasn't long before a number of projects were initiated, some still flourishing.
Pat Haynes, founding member of ICSS
Voluntary Action Islington
Charity Number: 0291890.
Patrons: Jeremy Corbyn MP, Emily Thornberry MP.
CEO: Navinder Kaur.
Company No. 1913555
Company Limited by Guarantee