Voluntary sector organisations are – rightly – highly valued for their connection and commitment to the people and communities they serve. This allows them to meet real and sometimes previously hidden needs, to speak up without fear or favour and to deliver services in original and effective ways. This independence – of purpose, voice and action – is what makes the voluntary sector special and enables it to serve the interests of those who might otherwise be left without support or a voice because they lack power or influence.
The Panel on the Independence of the Voluntary Sector has been established by the Baring Foundation because of continued concerns about that independence. Over the next five years, we aim to shed light on how far there is a problem and what can be done about it.
The Panel on the Independence of the Voluntary Sector published its first consultation report on July 14th 2011 and input is now being sought from voluntary organisations.
The consultation will close on 21st September.
Full details of the panel can be found here