Understanding the Roles of VAL and VAL YOU in Leeds

Clarifying the Difference Between Two Local Organisations

In Leeds, organisations supporting the voluntary and community sector play a vital role in fostering social action and strengthening local groups. Two such entities, Voluntary Action Leeds (VAL) and VAL YOU, often cause confusion due to their similar names. This article outlines the distinct functions of each and explains how they contribute to the city’s charitable landscape.

What Is Voluntary Action Leeds (VAL)?

Voluntary Action Leeds is a charitable organisation dedicated to supporting voluntary and community groups across the city. Its work includes:

• Facilitating volunteering opportunities
• Supporting the development and sustainability of local organisations
• Building connections within the community
• Promoting positive social action throughout Leeds

Overall, VAL aims to help good causes increase their impact and effectiveness within the city.

What Is VAL YOU?

VAL YOU operates as the business arm of Voluntary Action Leeds. It provides a range of services tailored specifically to charities, community groups, and ethical businesses, with the following key features:

• Affordable, sector-friendly support services
• All profits are reinvested into VAL’s charitable activities
• Services designed to strengthen the voluntary sector while supporting individual organisations

Services Offered by VAL YOU

VAL YOU offers several practical services aimed at supporting organisations in Leeds and West Yorkshire, including:

• Virtual Office – Providing a professional and secure Leeds address for charities, community interest companies (CICs), freelancers, and start-ups, starting from £30 plus VAT per month
• Payroll Service – Assistance with efficient and stress-free payroll management
• Charity Recruitment – Affordable recruitment support tailored to the charity sector
• Room Hire at Stringer House – Access to professional meeting and training rooms with free parking and accessible facilities
• Training Packages – Cost-effective training for staff and volunteers, customised to organisational needs

Why These Distinctions Matter

Understanding the difference between VAL and VAL YOU is important for organisations seeking support in Leeds. While VAL focuses on broader community and voluntary sector development, VAL YOU offers business-oriented services that directly assist charities and ethical enterprises with operational needs. Choosing to work with VAL YOU means accessing affordable services that also contribute to the wider voluntary sector through reinvested profits.

For further information about VAL YOU’s services, visit their website at valyouleeds.co.uk.

Source: Doing Good Leeds, VAL YOU vs Voluntary Action Leeds: What’s the Difference? (And Why It Matters)