A Good Practice Guide: Working with Local Infrastructure Organisations to engage smaller VCFSE organisations

The guide produced by The Local Government Association explains the benefits for councils of collaborating with the VCFSE (Voluntary, Community, Faith, and Social Enterprise) sector, highlights the importance of fostering a culture that values the VCFSE, and outlines how LIOs (Local Infrastructure Organisations) can support this process to establish strong and trusted partnerships.

Evidence to contribute to this guide was gathered by NAVCA (National Association for Voluntary and Community Action) between November 2023 and March 2024 through interviews with councillors, council officers, staff of LIOs and local VCSE organisations. 

Six key aspects of good practice are highlighted, and the guide is brought to life through seven case studies that cover: reaching and engaging with communities furthest from council services; building the capacity of VCFSE organisations to deliver activities and services for local residents; offering flexibility and agility to respond to crisis situations; and meeting the needs of minoritised communities.

Current funding pressures on councils create challenges for the VCFSE sector in delivering services and for LIOs in supporting and connecting them. While councils are not the only source of funding, their partnerships with VCFSE organisations are crucial for service delivery and advocacy. As council funding decreases, the VCFSE faces growing demands without sufficient resources. The guide is published in response to these complex and difficult circumstances.