Ensuring Black-Led Organisations Aren't Left Behind by the Civil Society Covenant
As the new government takes steps to establish a Civil Society Covenant, we at Do it Now Now, dedicated to strengthening the capacity of Black-led charities and social enterprises, are acutely aware of the urgency this moment represents. Many of our organisations already operate within environments lacking the structural support necessary to thrive, especially amid a cost-of-living crisis that has only deepened disparities. Black-led charities and social enterprises now face heightened challenges, with 70% of our community expressing deep concern over increased operational costs, revenue shortages, and limited support avenues.
The Covenant's foundational principles—Recognition, Partnership, Participation, and Transparency—are a starting point. However, our experience tells us that merely stating these principles without a robust framework to support Black-led organisations falls short of what our community needs.
Recognition
Recognition of civil society’s value is an essential commitment. Yet for Black-led organisations to be truly recognised, this principle must translate into actionable policies. Recognition without access is not enough. Our organisations need direct, reliable funding channels, acknowledgment of lived experience as expertise, and leaders who look like us advocating at the decision-making tables. Recognition must mean resources, not rhetoric.
Partnership
Partnership is the backbone of service delivery and sustainable impact. However, meaningful partnerships for Black-led organisations mean overcoming significant systemic barriers. Our Cost of Living Report highlights how 66% of Black charities and social enterprises are diverting funds to cover operational costs rather than expanding services. True partnership requires funders and government to not only acknowledge but actively address the under-resourcing and heightened pressures we face. A seat at the table must come with support, and without this foundation, partnerships will remain performative.
Participation
To genuinely foster participation, the government must listen to Black-led organisations and build mechanisms for ongoing consultation, particularly during policy formation. However, engaging with national and local government requires resources that many Black-led organisations simply don’t have. Without direct support for participation, we risk further marginalising organisations that are essential lifelines for underserved communities. We urge the government to establish a dedicated fund that empowers Black-led charities and social enterprises to engage meaningfully in shaping policies that affect our future.
Transparency
Transparency in this Covenant should mean giving Black-led organisations clear and accessible information about funding, support structures, and decision-making processes. Often, funders and policymakers expect results without providing Black-led organisations with the insights needed to succeed. Transparent, inclusive feedback loops must be developed to ensure that our community not only receives information but can act on it effectively.
A Call to Action
Now is the time for Black-led charities and social enterprises to make their voices heard. We call on our community to participate actively in the Covenant consultation. This is an opportunity to hold the government accountable, ensuring that our voices are not only present but central to future policy developments. Do it Now Now is committed to supporting our community through this process, so let’s engage, advocate, and insist on the support we need to continue serving our communities effectively.
As the government moves forward with this Covenant, it is essential they listen to those of us on the frontlines. Together, we can ensure this is not just another set of promises but a transformative framework that finally addresses the deep-rooted inequalities Black-led organisations face. Join us in making sure our message is clear: Recognition, partnership, participation, and transparency must come with the investment and resources our community needs to thrive.
Let’s stand together. Engage in the consultation, advocate for meaningful change, and help shape a future where Black-led organisations receive the support they need to flourish.
The Government’s consultation for the sector on the Civil Society Covenant Framework runs until 12 December 2024. You can submit your thoughts here.
