Each April we publish the results of a snapshot survey which reveals readers’ opinion on a topic or area that affects the charity sector. This year, we gathered views on the umbrella bodies. You can find the full results here, but (and without wanting to give too much away) you have probably already worked out from this month’s cover that respondents expressed a clear desire to see greater collaboration between the various umbrella bodies.
They also felt that one of the main roles of these organisations is to provide a voice for the sector – especially in representing its interests and difficulties to government.
The survey took place before last month’s spring budget (for coverage of this please see this article). It could be said that the budget was a success story for those representing the sector to government, as the chancellor announced funding for some charities.
Of course, this government funding is not a panacea for the charity sector’s financial concerns – and it would be unreasonable and undesirable to expect any government (whatever its political leanings) to be able to solve these entirely. However, it is hopefully a step in the right direction.
There was a feeling during the pandemic that the government did not fully understand charities or the crucial work that they carry out every day. Even when the Covid-19-related financial package for the sector was released, it was far less than had been called for.
Again, some may say the new funding to help during the cost-of-living crisis is not enough, but it seemed to be a more proactive approach from the government. The Covid-19 package was long trailed but there was much delay in the announcement of the details, despite heavy lobbying.
This time it feels like the government has recognised charities’ vital role much sooner and perhaps did learn some lessons about the sector during the pandemic – we can but hope. If this is the case, then the sector should be proud of the work of its representatives in pushing its interests up the government agenda.
The work of promoting the role that charities play in society is not over. It never will be, but any sign of progress and improvement should be welcomed and praised as a success.
Hopefully, things continue to head in the right direction but time will tell if the message sticks with the government. A step forward in the sector’s relationship with government?
Tristan Blythe is editor of Charity Finance
