This publication from the Cabinet Office sets out the Government’s response to suggestions from the voluntary, community and social enterprise sector who were asked for their views on how the Government can reduce the deficit and deliver services more innovatively and efficiently.

The Office for Civil Society is working with strategic partners and the LGA to facilitate local events that will debate and share best practice in relation to managing cuts.

It describes new powers and opportunities for local communities and organisations that will allow them to benefit from a power shift which takes power from Whitehall and transfers it to local communities. An example is reform to the planning system which will provide opportunities for neighbourhoods to be involved in the future of their area.

It also spells out some of the practical measures that the Government is taking to support the sector to realise these opportunities in the immediate future and over the longer term.

The Office for Civil Society is seeking views on how infrastructure organisations can best be improved to help develop new skills, partnerships and organisational models so that frontline organisations can seize the opportunities that lie ahead.

Building a Stronger Civil Society is available from the Cabinet Office