CVS wishes its membership to represent a broad cross section of organisations; it is not only involved with social care, but with every aspect of community life.

Membership is open to organisations concerned with social welfare, environment, ethnic minorities, and with cultural, social, recreational and religious activities.  Statutory and other bodies can be in membership but the voluntary and community bodies should be in the majority.

All members should ascribe to the principle and aims of the CVS.

CVS exists to help organisations within the areas of , Pateley Bridge, Boroughbridge and Masham and to be as effective as possible and to work together for the good of the community.  This means working closely with those who have responsibility for services of all kinds, including statutory authorities, local government and local officers of central government such as police, probation, health services, the private sector and all organisations in the community.

When CVS is concerned with contentious issues, the CVS will make sure that everyone is aware of the various arguments.  The CVS does not have to take a particular point of view on every issue presented to it, but when it does it will clearly state that it is its own opinion.  CVS will encourage individual organisations to express their own point of view.

Organisations seeking membership should apply to the Board of Directors on the appropriate form.  Organisations will be informed in writing when membership has been granted, and will be asked to pay an annual membership fee.

The Board of Directors may at its discretion invite individuals, businesses, organisations or agencies who may not wish, or may not be entitled to membership, but who are in agreement with the principle and aims and wish to support the organisation by fundraising, financial support, or other ways to become Friends of CVS.

The Board of Directors employs a Director and staff to carry out the work of the organisation and to support its voluntary activity.  In addition, the work of the CVS is supported by over 300 volunteers.