Charities must be able to give voice to the voiceless

This government has actively encouraged the voluntary sector to deliver public services. However, the independence of charities to speak up for vulnerable children and families is under threat at a time of acute social need. Former Barnardo’s chief Sir Roger Singleton warns of “self-censorship, where organisations are afraid of ‘biting the hand that feeds’ as cuts fall” (see p8).

Those charities whose income is reliant on state funding through grants and commissioned services would appear to have more to lose from opposing policy and spending decisions than those with significant donors and cash reserves. In any case, survival is the priority for many smaller charities. They lack resources to flex those campaigning vocal chords and sway policy.
 
Yet, charities have a vital role in defending the wellbeing of marginalised groups that are less popular causes, such as families with substance misuse problems, or asylum-seeking children. As Family Action’s Helen Dent puts it: “We have a responsibility to campaign against changes that will negatively affect families we support. If we don’t, who will?” In the recent past, coalition groups such as the End Child Poverty campaign have alerted public and government attention. Now the big four domestic children’s charities are in talks about speaking with a coherent voice. This is an encouraging move, but they must solicit the experiences on the ground from smaller, niche charities in the process.

However, some pernicious forces appear to want to muzzle any hint of objection. Save the Children, which had the audacity to break with tradition last year in launching an appeal for UK children in poverty, was attacked by some for being too politicised. Then there is the Work Programme, the government’s flagship jobs scheme.

Contracts with providers including charities contain “gagging clauses” preventing them from speaking out about the programme’s shortcomings, and there are restrictions on releasing data about performance. The public accounts committee last month slammed the programme’s performance, noting that one provider did not place a single young person into a job lasting six months.

Such restrictions to speak freely and share information are an affront to democracy and to the families that are most in need. 2013 would be an opportune time for the charity sector, on their behalf, to fight back.

Turbulence for sector is guaranteed in 2013

The children’s sector is no stranger to reform and early 2013 will usher in more than its fair share. As well as the Children and Families Bill, expect revised guidance on Working Together to Safeguard Children; government responses to the children and young people’s health outcomes forum proposals, and to the Carlile review on the Edlington case; and a spate of inquires on the care system to report back. Most imminent is the verdict of the Childcare Commission and response to the Nutbrown review of early years qualifications, expected in the coalition’s mid-term review. It could turn out to be a crucial period for the sector.
ravi.chandiramani@markallengroup.com