What does the new Labour Government mean for charities?
On 4 July 2024, the UK voted for a new government, and after 14 years of a Conservative party, Labour was elected. We also have a new Minister, Stephanie Peacock, who has been appointed as Minister for Civil Society, with a remit to build a collaborative partnership between government and the voluntary sector.? But what do these changes mean for the charity sector? And what should charities be doing next?
Building relationships
Effective relationships are key to building trust.? Charities should continue to build relationships with MPs to have a clear link with Parliament where key decisions can be made and passed.
Many charities are already very adept at engaging with politicians locally and nationally on matters which are relevant to their beneficiaries. ?However, the change in Government may present their first opportunity to consider how they can build new relationships. A planned, proactive approach will help to guarantee that your Charity’s voice is heard in the most impactful way to help ensure your Charity’s objectives can be achieved.
When highlighting different issues to MPs, remember: what, why, who, when, what and the how? This will help ensure no key piece of information is omitted.
·?????? What? – you need to explain what the issue is but in the most succinct manner
·?????? Why? – why is the issue an issue? What is the impact?
·?????? Who? – Who is affected by the raised issue?
·?????? When? – Are there any triggers for when the issue occurs? Is it ongoing or is it something that can be foreseen in the future?
·?????? What? – what next? What have you already done?
·?????? How? – how can MPs and Parliament support you in your issue, how can you work together?
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The King’s speech
On 17 July 2024, the King set out the government’s legislative agenda for the following parliamentary session. The bills set out by the King, if successfully achieved, will directly or indirectly help charities across the UK to achieve their goals.
We have noted some of the key points of interest for charities and what these may mean:
‘My Government will seek a new partnership with both business and working people and help the country move on from the recent cost of living challenges by prioritising wealth creation for all communities’. Over the past few years there has been a known cost of living crisis, with many families and individuals struggling to make ends meet. This has caused an increase in demand on the charity sector to support people across the UK, whether this is through, for example, an increased dependency on food banks or vulnerable adults unable to heat their homes. It will be important for charities to work together to create a strong partnership between the government and the charity sector to resource and support people more effectively. It is worth noting too that this speech preceded the recent disturbances and riots across the country.
“My ministers will legislate to modernise the Mental Health Act, so it is fit for the twenty first century [Mental Health Bill].” Mental health has been at the forefront of all our minds, especially since covid and how we can support each other. A more modernised Mental Health Bill will help charities and those struggling with their mental health to get the right support at the right time.
Current MPs in Parliament and their link to charities
Starmer’s Cabinet is now in place and what is good to see is 8 of these members, as reported in New Pro Bono Economics (PBE), have charity experience. This is four times the number of MPs in the cabinet of the previous government. Furthermore 242 MPs have publicly spoken about their background in the charity sector[1]. Hopefully, an increase in the number of MPs with charity experience will mean a greater focus on what charities need and more resources directed accordingly.
Some MPs with previous experience include the following:
What next?
Over the next few months charities should keep abreast of the work of the new government, continue to campaign as strong advocates for their beneficiaries and meet with targeted MPs. It will be important for charities to maintain their independent voice and work hard to build trust.