Independence and values

Independence is a core value for all voluntary and community organisations.

It is fundamental to most people’s understanding of the sector, and highlights the importance of organisations managing their own affairs, being accountable to their mission and their beneficiaries and acting in the best interests of both.

Yet in recent years some have questioned whether closer working with government has undermined the sector’s independence.

Charities' Right to Campaign

Charities and voluntary and community organisations have traditionally been at the forefront of social change in Britain. They are rooted in civil society, in citizens coming together to make a difference to their lives, their community or to the lives of others.

It is vital that Government protects charities’ right to campaign within the law, and respects their independence and their essential role as an independent voice for their cause and the interests of the individuals and communities they work with.

Read more about Charities and Campaigning.

Standing apart, working together - a study of the myths and realities of voluntary and community sector independence

NCVO’s report, Standing apart, working together , examines the myths and realities surrounding this question. This report, first published in 2004, explores the issues around voluntary and community sector (VCS) independence. It looks at what we mean when we talk about independence, who and what can constrain independent action, the implications of these relationships and constraints, and makes suggestions for future action.  The Executive Summary (PDF 75KB) published July 2008 is now available to download. A toolkit, sponsored by the Baring Foundation has also been published.  The toolkit which will help voluntary and community organisations reflect on their independence is available to download (PDF 173KB).  

Download standing apart, working together (PDF 306KB)

Values into Action

Values feature prominently in discussions about the role of the voluntary and community sector.  Values are variously described as both a defining feature of the sector and as a central driving force for individual organisations.  They are described as a unifying force that stretches across an otherwise diverse sector.

This report - developed in partnership with Community Links - builds on the findings of the Community Links' Inquiry

into the Values of the Third Sector by looking in more detail at how organisations put their values into practice. 

Download Values into Action (PDF 292KB)

For more details contact Veronique Jochum.