The Voluntary Sector Manifesto

Charities^[1] and volunteers exist to make communities stronger. For everyone, everywhere.

The UK is facing challenges that no political party can solve alone. To bring about a new era of success and growth across the country, the power and commitment of the voluntary sector must be realised.

Government should invest in the voluntary sector as an equal partner of the state. This will unlock talent, expertise and innovation that is embedded in communities.

This is a once in a generation opportunity to forge a new and innovative relationship with the voluntary sector. We can trailblaze a new model of delivery and create a powerful partnership that builds a fair and thriving society.

We are a force for good, and a force for change.

The voluntary sector isn’t a ‘nice to have’. Charities don’t exist for handouts. And volunteers shouldn’t be taken for granted.

Charities underpin the country’s social infrastructure. They deliver public services. They meet needs, connect communities and individuals, and help address systemic inequality. Through decades of hard work, they’ve earned deep-rooted trust.

The voluntary sector:

• helps solve challenges with integrity, drive and dedication
• has far-reaching knowledge about the people and causes they support
• works innovatively and responsibly for people instead of profit
• builds trust with those who are often not heard
• mobilises, develops and empowers volunteers.

The Voluntary Sector Manifesto presents a range of ways the government can work with charities to make a positive difference.

It was shaped by NCVO and ACEVO’s 17,000+ combined members. Members were given opportunities to provide feedback and input at every stage.

It presents a clear vision for the future and asks for the next government.

Voluntary organisations and charities can:

• use the manifesto as a framework to start conversations with ministers, policy makers and parliamentarians
• use the our vision and our asks sections to understand the issues affecting our sector
• use the manifesto alongside our political campaigning guidance for charities to develop your relationship-building and influencing strategy.

You can download a PDF version of the manifesto below to take with you to meetings and events.

NCVO developed this maniefesto in partnership with ACEVO.