Localism

NAVCA is generally supportive of the change in emphasis for central government that Localism brings.

NAVCA and our network of members are experienced at supporting, promoting and enabling voluntary and community action. Our members help local people influence local decisions, help to break down barriers between the state and the local community, and have a detailed knowledge of the local area. We would strongly encourage government to engage with us and our membership and not seek to replicate or undermine the practical support that already exists.

NAVCA have launched the Real Power for Communities campaign to ensure that the Localism Bill gives real power to communities and not simply to the town hall.

Fairness and equality

NAVCA's support for Localism is tempered by concerns that it should not undermine the principles of fairness and equality by permitting unacceptable discrepancies in the support available in different areas.

Consultation responses:

• NAVCA, NCVO and ACEVO produced a joint response to the Best Value guidance (PDF, 222KB) in June 2011.
• In May 2011 we responded to consultations on the Community Right to Buy(Word, 203KB) and the Community Right to Challenge (Word, 217KB)

Further reading:

• NAVCA's Real Power for Communities campaign
• NAVCA briefings and bulletins about Localism and the Localism Bill
• Localism resources page, kept up-to-date with useful links, publications and guides