Bath MP Don Foster has welcomed figures released by The National Council for Voluntary Organisations which has highlighted the strong presence of over 200 charities in Bath.
Recently launched by the NCVO, the 2014 UK Civil Society Almanac, covering the period of 2010/11 to 2011/12, gives facts and stats on the voluntary sector, its size and scope, finances and the people that work or volunteer in it.
In Bath, the Almanac revealed that there are 270 charities with an income of £63.6 million.
In addition, the Almanac found that together those charities employed around 1,000 people.
On a national level, it was found that across the UK, there are over 161,000 voluntary organisations with an income of £39.2bn which employ around 800,000 people.
Commenting, Don Foster MP, said: “This was a very thorough study by the NCVO which reaffirms what we have known for a long time; the voluntary sector is extremely important, both on a national and local level.
“In addition to employing many people and contributing to the local economy, the charities in Bath also help many local people and drastically improve their quality of life.”
Ben Stevens, Liberal Democrat Councillor for Widcombe and B&NES Cabinet member for Sustainable Development, added: “The strength of the charity sector in Bath is testament to the people of this city.
“The Liberal Democrats on B&NES have worked hard to support these important employers. Just one example of this is the introduction of Community Asset Transfers.
“This innovative scheme hands over a Council asset, such as a building, to a community group or charity. Enabling charities to have their own building is a great way to ensure their continued viability.”