In a survey of 30,000 subscribers to the Directory of Social Change (DSC) e-newsletter, 72% said they didn’t think a single voice for the sector was feasible.

Key themes that arose from the survey were that the differing structures of government and sector would make it unworkable; the range of organisations involved makes a single voice impossible; and the concern of smaller charities that larger organisations wouldn’t represent their views. In addition, comments were made relating to the need for central and local government to act and speak as one before they can expect the sector to do the same.

Ben Wittenberg, head of policy and research at the DSC said: “From this survey it is clear we should be asking the government – who do you think you are talking to? Clearly not the thousands of smaller charities out there, just a few of the big hitters. To engage effectively government must focus on engaging with all levels of the sector, rather than placing the emphasis on the sector speaking with a common voice.”

The feedback wasn’t all negative. Some respondents suggested that there could be some areas where a common voice could be found, such as legislation and funding, while others recommended setting up a cross-sector, elected council to speak on behalf of the sector.

For more information on the survey, visit www.dsc.org.uk