The government has asked sector experts to apply for membership of an advisory body it has set up to drive implementation of this year’s Civil Society Covenant.
When the government published the covenant, a set of principles designed to “reset” the relationship between the state and the sector, in July, it included plans for a “joint civil society covenant council” to provide “strategic oversight” of the agreement’s delivery.
Now, the government has revealed that the Civil Society Council will be chaired by NCVO chief executive Kate Lee and meet quarterly in Downing Street over two years.
The government is seeking around 12 representatives to join the group from across civil society, including membership bodies but also “individuals with relevant experience who wish to serve”.
“This could range from experience as a frontline volunteer, trustee or philanthropist, to a playing leading role in a voluntary, faith-based or social enterprise of any size,” its announcement reads.
“Across the membership of the council as a whole, the government is also seeking a diversity of geographies, ages and backgrounds. This includes explicitly seeking a youth representative.”
The government said it is looking for members with attributes such as “an ability to identify, analyse and solve problems” and a “track record of working collaboratively across sectors”.
‘A home at the heart of government’
The government said in its announcement: “At the Civil Society Summit in July, the prime minister said he would give civil society a home at the heart of government.
“So the council intends to meet quarterly in Downing Street, and be supported by a small, dedicated team in No 10 which will provide the secretariat.
“This approach explicitly seeks to elevate the place of civil society within government and to maximise the reach of the council across Whitehall.
“In addition to regular attendance from No10 and DCMS, government plans to include senior representatives from other departments relevant to the specific agenda items.
“This represents a desire not only for solving problems across the system, but also to think boldly about how to maximise the opportunities for civil society to contribute across every part of government.”
Lee said: “I am honoured to have been appointed chair of the Civil Society Council to help lead change across government, so partnership working is central to policy creation and decision making.
“The launch of the Civil Society Covenant was a huge step for the sector and will only work if truly embedded in the heart of government.
“The commitment from the prime minister to build a council that works directly with Number 10 recognises the strength and skills of voluntary organisations in helping solve challenges which are preventing communities from thriving.
“We know that no one organisation or institution can bring about change alone. The council must draw on voices from across the sector, so we represent the full breadth of civil society, and the rich tapestry of communities we represent.”
Those interested in applying to be a member of the Civil Society Council have until 5 January.
In another measure trailed in the covenant, earlier this month the Cabinet Office launched a feedback process for charities who feel like government department funders are limiting their ability to campaign.
