Active engagement in the Third Sector is an important building block in the creation of vibrant communities that are united by common visions as well as valuing diversity and equality of opportunity.
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We believe that third sector organisations have a crucial role to play in the reform of public services and reinvigoration of civic life. They provide high quality support to particular groups and are often ideally placed to reach marginalised groups enabling individuals to participate actively in their local community.
To ensure that communities are able to play a full part in society, the Government has developed a range of participation and engagement programmes which provide resources for training, development, advice and support.
The principles of community participation and engagement are enshrined in most Government policies. Each individual has the right to engage in and contribute to the development of the civil society and is responsible for ensuring that everyone is treated equitably and fairly; therefore developing communities that have shared values, integration, valuing diversity and similar life opportunities such as housing, education and employment.
The Government is strongly committed to creating a framework in which the sector can continue to flourish. In 2002, the Government pledged to increase activity in the third sector by 5 per cent by 2006. Using the Home Office Citizenship Survey, third sector activity had increased by 9 per cent by 2003. To learn more about the government’s support programmes please click on the links below.
