Council of Ethnic Minority Voluntary Sector Organisations

The need for community voice

There is a need for community organisations to influence policy makers at all levels and to ensure that their voice is heard. Large organisations can achieve this through campaigns and lobbying – this is more difficult for small groups. CEMVO provides voice for these communities nationwide in the following ways:

»   by gathering views and responding to consultations.
»   by running conferences, workshops and networks.
»   through membership of strategic groups and boards.

 

Creating voice

Government, at all levels, needs community intelligence and opinion to develop and implement effective policy.Some communities lack the social capital to engage fully and contribute to this. CEMVO overcomes this disadvantage by helping to build communities and representing those who may be socially excluded.

CEMVO has conducted research programmes representing the views of both the general public and minorities, most recently for the NHS Choice Agenda. Governmental organisations and agencies consult us for our views on our constituency. In addition, CEMVO staff also sit on government committees and working parties, including tax, benefits, immigration and employment.

 

You can help by:

• responding to our requests for your views or information on how policy affects you.
• soliciting our input into policy making issues.