Policy and Advocacy

The community and voluntary sector in Ireland is not merely supplementary, but a fundamental force in navigating crises as well as providing everyday infrastructure. Recognising and supporting this vital sector through adequate resourcing is crucial for ensuring Ireland’s continued capacity to respond effectively and compassionately to future challenges.

The role of the community and voluntary sector in holding governments to account for decisions and in ensuring that Government hears the voices of those they represent is essential in a functioning democracy.

At The Wheel, we facilitate a number of European programmes for the community and voluntary sector, including Access Europe, as well as engaging on the social economy at European level.

People working in the community and voluntary sector understand the importance of transparency in their work; many worked for years to encourage the establishment of Ireland’s Charities Regulator. The sector as a whole welcomes regulation, and community and voluntary organisations work tirelessly to attain the highest standards of governance.

The community and voluntary sector workforce is on the frontline of service delivery and advocacy work across Ireland, in areas such as developing disability services, extending childcare provision, and providing appropriate housing.

For many years, charities, community and voluntary organisation and social enterprises urged Government to produce a comprehensive development strategy for the sector that is underpinned by a sustainable funding model.

In 2022, the Department of Rural and Community Development launched the Values and Principles for Collaboration and Partnership Working with the Community and Voluntary Sector, which copper-fastened the relationship and partnership between Government and the sector, highlighting its centrality in addressing the crises of recent times.