Why these priorities matter
NICVA’s Policy, Research and Insight team works to strengthen the sector’s voice, build evidence, and influence decision-makers so that the VCS can thrive. Our approach is guided by four core principles:
Convening – bringing together stakeholders to collaborate on shared challenges.
Building capacity – supporting the sector with the skills and knowledge to influence effectively.
Innovating – testing participative and equitable approaches to drive change.
Gathering insight – using evidence, stories and lived experience from across the VCS to shape better systems and policies.
By doing this, NICVA aims to ensure that government, funders, and wider society recognise the essential contribution of the VCS to a fairer and more equal Northern Ireland.
The policy context
Recent analysis by Pivotal, in its report Policy Delivery in Northern Ireland, highlights the significant barriers to effective policy-making – from siloed working to the absence of a strong centre of government. Against this backdrop, it is vital that the voice of the VCS is heard and that the sector is engaged as a partner in shaping solutions to complex social, economic and environmental challenges.
NICVA’s long-standing role has been to provide that collective voice, building cross-cutting understanding and advocating for a thriving, well-supported VCS.
Our four priorities
Following consultation, analysis of our ongoing work, and alignment with sister councils across the UK and Ireland, NICVA has identified four over-arching priorities:
- Deepening government engagement and policy support
Strengthening relationships with policymakers, improving the visibility of the sector, and ensuring that government decisions are shaped by the experiences of communities.
2. Ensuring sustainable and fair funding
Advocating for funding models that provide stability, fairness, and the flexibility needed for VCS organisations to deliver impact.
3. Advocating for the VCS as a key civil society voice
Promoting the vital role of the sector in civic life, ensuring it is recognised as a trusted and essential partner alongside government and business.
4. Strengthening community engagement and empowerment
Supporting communities to shape decisions that affect them, fostering innovation, and enabling collaboration across the sector.
Looking ahead
These priorities will provide a shared framework for all of NICVA’s campaigns, programmes, networks and coalitions. They will also allow us to measure impact more effectively, strengthen our strategic messaging, and deepen collaboration with our sister councils across the UK and Ireland.
By working collectively under these priorities, NICVA will amplify the voice of the voluntary and community sector, advocate for sustainable investment, and support organisations to continue making a difference in the lives of people and communities across Northern Ireland.
How you can get involved and stay informed
VCS Policy Community
NICVA's new networking opportunity connecting organisations in our sector with others who have a shared interest in policy and public affairs takes place quarterly on the first Thursday morning of the month and meets alternately in-person and online.
Assembly Insider
This weekly email bulletin provides information on the work of the Northern Ireland Assembly and in particular the issues which are of interest to the voluntary and community sector. NICVA members can subscribe to Assembly Insider here: https://www.nicva.org/newsletters.
