"Let's reset the relationships between civil society and local government."
Date posted: 4th November 2024
Civil Society Covenant Framework launch
The Civil Society Covenant Framework aims to create a stronger partnership between the government and civil society. It acknowledges the crucial role of charities, social enterprises, and community groups in solving local issues and building community connections. This collaboration is vital for achieving the government's key goals, such as economic growth, healthcare reform, clean energy, and public safety. By developing the Covenant, the government wants to put civil society at the heart of national life again, leveraging its local knowledge and community ties. The Covenant will involve various stakeholders, including charities, local authorities, and national bodies, to ensure an effective partnership.
On 17 October 2024, DCMS launched a Covenant Framework to foster dialogue between civil society and government, supported by a reception with the Prime Minister. This will guide discussions through autumn to shape a final Covenant by the new year, establishing a trusted partnership between the government and civil society.
The Covenant Framework outlines the goals, scope, and key principles for a new partnership, based on four core values: transparency, recognition, partnership, and participation. DCMS has collaborated with key civil society groups, like NCVO and ACEVO, to shape this vision. Now, we’re gathering input directly from civil society and government on what they want in the Covenant.
The scope of the Covenant will be wide, relevant to the full range and diversity of civil society as well as government at every level. Some devolved governments, local authorities and combined authorities have existing arrangements that the Covenant will need to complement.
The 4 high level principles
- Recognition
- Partnership
- Participation
- Transparency
This is a chance to put the voluntary sector at the heart of decision-making. It will ensure policies are informed by lived experience and on-the-ground expertise.
GOV.UK
"The Prime Minister has made it a priority to reset the relationship with the civil society."
"Whether it's advocacy or campaigning, social entrepreneurship or service delivery - civil society organisations make our country a better place."
"Government marks 'new beginning' of relationship with civil society to tackle some of society's most pressing issues with launch of a new 'Civil Society Covenant."
NCVO
Click the links below to learn more and share your views.
NCVO are working closely with the government and ACEVO (the Association of Chief Executives of Voluntary Organisations) to develop the Civil Society Covenant.
The Covernant is a new agreement to improve the relationship between civil society and government.
Step 2: Complete the feedback form
Click the link above and head straight to step 2 to share your experiences and provide feedback on the draft Covenant Framework principles.
Deadline: midday on Thursday 12th Decemeber 2024.
Shaping The Civil Society Covenant: Drop in workshops
NCVO are hosting interactive workshops to help shape a new agreement to improve the relationship between civil society organisations and government.
You can drop in for as much time as you have available. Whether you have 15 minutes to spare or an hour, share your views and experiences.