Category Archives: communities

A Shared Society Has To Offer Hope, Opportunity And Social Justice Not Fear, Inequality And Austerity

David Cameron launched his “Big Society” initiative only to let it wither on the vine of government. Through the “Big Society” he wanted an increased role for volunteers, voluntary social action and charities taking over from the state. Over his period in office public sector financial support for the voluntary and community, and wider charity… Read More...

Article 50: the voluntary and community sector should not stand aside

The voluntary and community sector (VCS) should seize the opportunity opened up as government prepares to challenge the high court judgement on who has the legal authority to invoke Article 50. Whatever the individual views on leaving the EU, organisations should not stand aside as parliament and government consider their strategies. They should be actively… Read More...

Community Social Action Can Build A Great Movement For The Better

Last week, I completed six years as a trustee and board member of navca – the National Association for Voluntary Community Action. During this time I have had the privilege to meet some fantastic people, and to see and learn about some incredible examples of social action. I have come to understand the power of… Read More...

Taking Back Control: Empowering Local Communities

On 23rd June 2016 the British people voted against remaining members of one of the boldest ever international attempts to create a union of collaborative nations based on the pursuit solidarity, economic progress and peace. This union will survive and evolve if and when and on whatever terms the UK leaves it. Ironically the historic… Read More...

Taking Back Control: Empowering Local Communities

English devolution should be community-based and community-led

Last week saw a major voluntary and community sector summit on the voluntary sector and devolution in England. The summit was timely and important as government considers the next stages in the drive to devolve responsibility and some power and resources to city regions and sub-regions.

Inevitably, the change in political leadership post-Brexit has created a pause in...

Local Social Action Is More Vital Than Ever – And So Are Its Champions

If ever there was a time for bold, brave focussed leadership in the voluntary and community sector, at both national and local level, surely it is now?

And this must particularly be case in respect of the local community and small charity sector, which are the backbone of strong communities and the catalyst for local social action.

Given contemporary social and...

The community sector must strike and strike fast, post-election

This Thursday’s council elections will inevitably result in changes of political administration and leadership across the country. Even where the same political party retains its majority, there will likely be significant changes in the membership of council cabinets and scrutiny committees.

The voluntary and community sector, on behalf of local communities, must be ready for such changes. Local leaders in...