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We understand the social and political context in which we work and engage with voluntary and community organisations to shape local decision making and service delivery.

Current thinking
If you are new to policy and would like to get an idea of the economic, social and environmental context in which we work generally (as a sector), we recommend reading material from the New Economics Foundation (NEF).  One of the leading independent think-tanks, the NEF talk a lot of sense and lead the way in many progressive ways of thinking regarding policy.  Their summary and report on the Big Society agenda 'Cutting it', in particular is extremely comprehensive, concise and progressive.  NEF link - www.neweconomics.org/

For any organisation it is important to consider how our work fits into the wider picture and to consider the external influences and drivers that affect us.  We can then use it to plan the strategic direction of our organisation.  The Third Sector Foresight website by NCVO specifically aims to help voluntary and community organisations to identify key drivers by summarising many external influences and offering tools for strategic planning.  Visit www.3s4.org.uk/ or sign up to receive their bulletin, www.3s4.org.uk/join

Specific policy:

'Cutting it' - The Big Society - Link to publication by the New Economics Foundation

Greater Manchester Combined authority proposal (summary) - or full briefing by CN4M

The Localism Bill - briefing by CN4M

The Work Programme - briefing by New Economy

Campaigning and petitioning
Join the Listen, Value Invest campaign to encourage government and statutory agencies to listen to, value and invest in individuals, communities and the third sector.

Campaign Louder - Louder is an easy-to-use, online campaigning tool from the National Council for Voluntary Organisation. This site draws together a range of online activist tools enabling you to create and run your own campaigns and connect with others.

E-petitioning website, by Manchester City Council
Launched in December 2010, Manchester City Council launched their e-petition site, which allows you to have your petition live on the internet. This way, your e-petition can be made available to a potentially much wider audience. http://petitions.manchester.gov.uk/petitions.ti

Where to go next:
Our members work closely to encourage a two-way communication between the public sector (particularly local authorities) and the voluntary and community sector.  They may offer:

• Facilitation of networks and forums
• Policy briefings and research
• Consultation and engagement
• Local knowledge and expertise

Each of our members will provide a voice, get actively involved, and use the right channels to represent the local voluntary and community sector. Find out more about how to get involved locally through our member profile pages.  You may be able to join a local network and influence the planning and delivery of service yourself.