Trust in leadership and collective voice
Respondents overwhelmingly say they trust NICVA to represent their interests, provide leadership on policy issues, and create meaningful opportunities for the sector’s voice to be heard. They value NICVA’s ability to interpret complex developments, convene organisations, and ensure frontline experience reaches decision-making spaces.
“Without NICVA, it would be extremely difficult for smaller organisations like ours to track policy developments or have any real voice in decision-making.”
Policy briefings, engagement events and analysis are described not just as useful, but essential — helping organisations respond with confidence rather than reacting in crisis.
When advocacy is strong — but the system still fails
The survey also reflects an important reality: even strong, coordinated advocacy has limits when accountability is fragmented and decisions are delayed.
This was most starkly illustrated by the Local Growth Fund. Through months of sustained advocacy and the #NICantWait campaign, the sector spoke with clarity and unity. Political leaders acknowledged the value of community‑led services and warned of severe consequences. And yet, on 1 April 2026, funding cuts took effect. Organisations were left without revenue funding, forcing redundancies, service closures and the withdrawal of vital support.
“NICVA did everything it possibly could — the failure was not in advocacy, but in the system.”
What charity leaders are telling us must change
Looking ahead, survey respondents are clear about what needs to happen:
- earlier and more meaningful sector involvement in policy and funding decisions,
- sustainable, multiyear funding models that reflect people-centred services, and
- clearer, joined up accountability across government.
As one organisation put it:
“Recognition of our value must be matched by action — otherwise communities pay the price.”
Why this matters
If you are a voluntary, community or social enterprise leader, trustee or senior manager, this survey reflects your reality. It confirms the strength of our collective voice — and the urgency of fixing the systems that too often fail the communities we serve.
Read the full NICVA Policy Survey 2026 report to explore the findings, insights and recommendations in more detail.
