Supporting the community and voluntary sector
A National-led government will continue to recognise and support the vital work that the community and voluntary sector
does, says spokesperson Jo Goodhew.
“National values the contribution of volunteers and the work of the voluntary sector. They are helping to make New
Zealand a better place,” says Mrs Goodhew.
“New Zealanders like to muck-in and help out. Around a third of adults contribute at least 10 hours a month to their
communities. That amounts to millions of hours freely given each year.
“Our volunteers and community groups are the backbone of our sports and social groups and the arts and cultural sector,
to name just a few areas of massive contribution.
“Under National the red tape and bureaucracy enforced on the sector has been reduced and streamlined, so these groups
are not wasting their precious time on paperwork.
“National recognises every community is unique, and that locals are often best placed to identify and respond to local
issues. That’s why we are exploring a different way to foster grass root initiatives.
“We are three quarters of the way through a four year pilot programme which empowers local communities. Through the
Community-led Development programme funding and support is given directly to the community, which then works to identify
and address issues unique to them,” says Mrs Goodhew.
“We have invested in the development of a framework for organisations wanting to explore Social Enterprise. This is when
commercial strategies are used to further the social and environmental aims of charities and community groups.
“National will also continue to improve the sector’s financial reporting, with new standards set to be introduced over
the next year.
“New Zealanders in the community and voluntary sector invest their time, effort and energy. They contribute to the
strength and resilience of our communities, making them better places for us to live,” says Mrs Goodhew.
National’s Community and Voluntary Sector policy is available at:http://ntnl.org.nz/1wbbgbK
ends