New resources to help the VCFSE sector navigate local government change

Local government in England is going through one of its biggest periods of change in a generation. Through devolution and local government reorganisation, new decision-making structures are emerging that will shape how services are designed, funded and delivered in communities.

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To help organisations navigate these changes, NAVCA and ACRE have launched a new website, bringing together practical resources for the voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise (VCFSE) sector, local authorities, strategic authorities and rural community support organisations.

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Understanding change and working together

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The project will help organisations understand what these reforms mean in practice and how to work together effectively as new systems take shape. It includes guidance, insights and practical tools designed to support collaboration between the VCFSE sector and emerging local and strategic authorities.

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Across England, areas with two-tier councils will move to new single councils, known as unitary authorities, while some regions will establish new strategic authorities with devolved powers. These changes will influence how decisions are made locally and how communities are represented.

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The VCFSE sector plays a vital role in communities – supporting people, strengthening social connections and often delivering services alongside local authorities and the NHS. As governance structures change, it is essential that the sector is able to engage early, build strong relationships with new authorities, and ensure community voices are heard.

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A shared approach to strengthening communities

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NAVCA and ACRE are working in partnership to enable the VCFSE sector, local infrastructure organisations and rural community support charities to work constructively with forming unitary and strategic authorities.

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The aim is simple: to help build strong local partnerships that ensure these changes benefit people and communities.

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By bringing together national insight, local experience and practical tools, the new microsite provides a space for organisations across sectors to learn, connect and prepare for the opportunities ahead.

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As local systems evolve, strong relationships between civil society and public bodies will be more important than ever. We hope these resources help organisations navigate the changes with confidence and ensure communities remain at the heart of local decision making.

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Visit the project website to browse the resources.

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We will add new resources and information to the website each week, so check back in regularly and keep an eye on our social media for all the latest updates. Please share the resources and website with your partners and networks, to help the VCFSE sector work together with statutory authorities to support communities.

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