Launching the final report from their Inquiry into the Future of Voluntary Services, the National Coalition for Independent Action (NCIA) has today called on voluntary and community services to face up to a decisive moment in its history. In a blistering critique of the systemic threats posed to the values, work and freedom of the … Continue reading
What happens when charities and voluntary groups are asked by Government to punish unemployed people and take away legal entitlements? In April 2014, the “Help to Work” programme was launched by Government. It consists of no help and no work. Instead, it continued previous policies that withhold unemployment benefits, unless those entitled to such benefits … Continue reading
‘Leadership’ groups, at both national and local levels, have failed to protect voluntary services groups and their users and communities from the damaging changes of the last decade. This is the broad conclusion of two Inquiry reports released today.
The position and role of national infrastructure bodies concerning the cuts to and privatisation of public … Continue reading
Back at the end of April, NCIA convened a two-day think-in. We brought together 20+ people from a variety of vantage points to debate how the world of voluntary action that we occupy relates to the wider landscape and the times we are living through. The result was inspiring “making visible the tensions and contradictions … Continue reading
NCIA contributed to a new report on open access to academic research – read on for details of free research tools.
It can be difficult when you’re in the thick of frontline work or local activism to find time to read, think, formulate ideas and link day-to-day work to social policy or political theory.
But … Continue reading
NCIA needs your input for a new project on resourcing voluntary action. In the face of cuts, inappropriate government policies and increased competition how do people find the resources to keep going with activities that help us enjoy each others’ company and join in activities – whether simple conviviality, leisure, solidarity and assistance, personal or … Continue reading
This is the latest hare to have been set running by Government and the Commission on Integration and Cohesion. It’s a policy which encourages funders to cut money to groups working with marginalised peoples, particularly those from secular black and minority ethnic groups such as Southall Black Sisters – while at the same time encouraging … Continue reading