ABSTRACT
The voluntary sector has a much longer history than the public sector. It was the only source of support for those in need before public services emerged, thus trail-blazing modern health services for the government. Since then it has stood the test of time, surviving:
● the heyday of the Welfare State ● the changing role of women in society ● changing family patterns ● community care policies ● the epidemiological transition ● the ageing of the population.
