Monthly charity news and policy update
Here's some news from around the charity sector.
This is your monthly charity news and policy update!
This month brings key changes with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s first cabinet reshuffle and progress on the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill, which could reshape how local authorities and charities work together.
There’s also good news as the Community Wealth Fund doubles, offering more support for disadvantaged communities. Finally, don’t forget to join us at DSC’s Engage Conference in October to learn how your organisation can influence policy and make an impact.
Kier Starmer’s new cabinet
Early in September, Prime Minister Sir Kier Starmer carried out his first cabinet reshuffle, prompted in part by the resignation of Angela Rayner from the roles of Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government following an inquiry that proved she had broken the ministerial code.
David Lammy has stepped into the role of Deputy Prime Minister, while also assuming the duties of Lord Chancellor and Justice Secretary. Yvette Cooper moves from Home Secretary to Foreign Secretary, and Shabana Mahmood succeeds her at the Home Office.
Steve Reed has taken over as Housing, Communities and Local Government Secretary, Peter Kyle taking on the Business portfolio, Liz Kendall being appointed to lead Science, Emma Reynolds heading Environment, Douglas Alexander as Scotland Secretary, and Pat McFadden taking on Work & Pensions (with added responsibility for skills).
Lisa Nandy remained as Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, where the civil society brief sits, with Stephanie Peacock remaining as Minister for Civil Society.
Update on the Local Government Bill
The English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill is now in Parliament and could significantly change how local authorities operate across England. It proposes merging smaller district councils into larger ‘Strategic Authorities’, a move that may impact how charities access funding, deliver services, and engage with decision-makers. Although framed as devolution, critics argue it shifts power further from communities rather than closer.
Reorganisation is already underway in six areas, even though the legislation and funding aren’t finalised—raising concerns about disruption, financial instability, and weakened local relationships. The Bill also proposes strengthening the Community Right to Buy, potentially giving local groups a better chance to secure community assets.
With major changes ahead, charities should stay informed, engage local networks, and speak with council contacts to understand what’s coming and how it might affect their work.
Read more from Jay Kennedy, DSC’s Director of Policy and Research, here.
Government launches Pride in Place programme
In an announcement timed for the Labour party conference, the government unveiled the ‘Pride in Place’ programme, which local charities and community groups will want to take note of. Details are still emerging but the govenrment says it will ‘support 330 of our most overlooked communities’ with ‘record investment to tackle deep-rooted deprivation and regional inequality’.
The programme aims to give more community power to prevent the decline of town centres and high streets, including the proposed Community Right to Buy in the Devolution Bill. More information here.
Good news for the Community Wealth Fund
The latest tranche of funding from dormant assets for community use has been boosted, with the Community Wealth Fund (CWF) receiving £87.5 million in match funding from the National Lottery Community Fund. This c, complementing recent funding for the CWF from the Dormant Assets Scheme to total £175m.
Over the next decade, between £1 million and £2.5 million each will be allocated eligible communities, defined as “doubly disadvantaged” – areas with high deprivation and low social infrastructure. These funds will empower residents in neighbourhoods of 5,000 to 15,000 people to decide how the money is spent locally.
David Knott, Chief Executive of the National Lottery Community Fund, emphasised that the initiative aims to create social infrastructure where it’s most needed, enabling local communities to shape their own futures.
This development presents an opportunity for charities and community groups to engage with and support the empowerment of local communities in these areas.
Don’t miss this year’s Engage conference!
Join us for DSC’s Engage Conference on Thursday 16 October, a powerful day dedicated to equipping charities with the tools to influence politicians, shape public policy, and make their voices heard where it matters most.
Expert speakers will dive into the latest critical policy issues affecting your charity, including the Devolution Bill, and we’ll explore how your organisation can drive real change. Learn more and register for Engage here.
