Millbank and Voice4Change England collaborated closely on the Civil Society Covenant, a significant initiative aimed at strengthening the relationship between the government and the voluntary and community sector. This partnership was instrumental in shaping the framework and guiding principles of the Covenant, ensuring that it effectively addressed the needs and challenges faced by civil society organizations.

The Civil Society Covenant, launched by the UK Government on July 17th, 2024, was designed to foster a new era of partnership between government and communities 1. Millbank and Voice4Change England played a crucial role in the development of this framework, which emphasizes shared ambition for better outcomes, respect for civil society’s independence, working together as equal partners, building trust through transparency, and a commitment to learning and improvement 1.

One of the key contributions of Millbank and Voice4Change England was their advocacy for the inclusion of diverse voices in the policymaking process. They emphasized the importance of involving charities, social enterprises, faith-based groups, unions, funders, and informal community organizations in decision-making 1. This inclusive approach ensures that the Covenant reflects the needs and aspirations of a wide range of stakeholders.

Millbank and Voice4Change England also worked together to promote the principles of transparency and accountability within the Covenant. They advocated for the government to design, fund, and deliver policies and services in genuine partnership with civil society organizations 1. This commitment to transparency helps build trust between the government and civil society, fostering a more collaborative and effective partnership.

Another significant aspect of their collaboration was the focus on sustainability and long-term impact. Millbank and Voice4Change England emphasized the need for continuous support and strategic planning to create lasting change 1. This forward-thinking approach ensures that the benefits of the Covenant will be felt for years to come, providing a solid foundation for future progress.

The partnership between Millbank and Voice4Change England also highlighted the importance of respecting the independence of civil society organizations. They advocated for the government to ensure that these organizations can advocate for those they serve and hold the government to account without fear of reprisal 1. This principle is crucial for maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of civil society.

Millbank and Voice4Change England's collaboration extended to promoting participation and inclusion. They worked to ensure that people are involved in decisions that affect their lives, recognizing that genuine, long-term systemic change can only be achieved by listening to the stories and experiences of communities 1. This approach helps to create policies that are more effective and responsive to the needs of the people.

The Civil Society Covenant also includes the establishment of new structures for collaboration, such as the Joint Civil Society Covenant Council and the Local Partnerships Programme 1. Millbank and Voice4Change England were instrumental in advocating for these structures, which are designed to strengthen relationships between local authorities and civil society organizations.

Through their collaboration, Millbank and Voice4Change England have helped to create a framework that not only addresses the immediate needs of civil society but also lays the groundwork for future progress. Their efforts have been crucial in ensuring that the Civil Society Covenant is a comprehensive and effective tool for fostering a stronger partnership between the government and communities.

Overall, the partnership between Millbank and Voice4Change England on the Civil Society Covenant represents a significant step forward in creating a more inclusive, transparent, and effective relationship between the government and civil society. Their collaborative efforts have helped to shape a framework that will benefit communities across the UK for years to come.