Policy

We’re not a membership body – we see ourselves as a ‘concerned citizen’, acting independently on behalf of, often small, organisations whose needs may not be considered in public policy. We ask critical questions, often challenge the prevailing view, and promote debate on important issues. Scroll down to read about our policy positions and principles.

Our policy work

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DSC's policy work
To some extent the terms ‘policy’, ‘campaigning’, ‘advocacy’, ‘lobbying’, or ‘public affairs’ can be used interchangeably and may mean different...
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Civil Society Council announced
The UK government introduced the Civil Society Covenant to strengthen partnerships with civil society. A new Civil Society Council has...
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New guidance to assist charities under threat of attack
Jay Kennedy highlights the new Charity Commission guidance, urging trustees and leaders to report serious incidents and strengthen safeguards.
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It’s the ‘Impact Economy’, stupid
Jay Kennedy explores the concept of the impact economy and argues that if it’s going to be a useful concept...
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Monthly charity news and policy update – January 2026
Here's some news from around the charity sector.
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Charities against hate - How to respond to racism
Now is the time to stand together, with courage, solidarity, and a shared commitment to real change.
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Why we made the Charities Against Hate guide
Looking at the statistics, racism has long existed structurally in the UK, with households headed by Black and Asian people more likely to experience poverty and the police more likely to conduct stop and searches on Black...