Squaring the Circle

Despite the increasing influence of networks, until now information about them has been scarce. They have an important role in promoting community and sector development, but are hindered by an inability to define either themselves, or the characteristics of their function.

'Squaring the Circle' calls for more debate to resolve the issue of this ‘blind spot’, offering a working definition to stimulate future discussion:

A network is any formal organisation whose main focus is the promotion and development of the sector itself, a sub-sectoral grouping, a defined membership or a specific issue.

The report responds to the heightened importance of these groups in government strategies for the future development and funding of the voluntary and community sector, particularly in relation to promoting sustainability and infrastructure. Major government documents of the last ten years (the Harbison report, Compact and Partners for Change) all cite the importance of networks when referring to the infrastructure and development of the sector.

It is essential that clarification and definition should come from within the sector, rather than being imposed from without. It is hoped that by addressing this issue, their position will be strengthened as a key element in furthering the sustainability of the voluntary and community sector.