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Policy and Politics Now

Politics is changing, again. Charities need to rethink their approach to policy and influencing and decide where they stand on the central issue of the day: the economy. 

It is advisable to revisit, but not rip up, existing work. Pandemics and political winds can, and should, force every organisation to reflect on the principles and plans it holds. This is no bad thing. Above all, stay true to your charitable objectives (which transcend political cycles) and stay close to your members and/or those you exist to serve. 

Considering the tone you use and the tactics you employ is essential. Your messages and asks are likely to remain broadly similar although your language could benefit from a refresh. Plays and songs are often framed and reframed for different audiences and different times while the essence of the story is retained. Flexibility and pragmatism matters. What works matters. Preventing progress being reversed and, where possible, edging key priorities forward matters. Building and sustaining coalitions matters. Focussed, evidence-based influencing carried out behind the scenes may be more effective than sounding off on Twitter. 

A new PM and set of Ministers means rumours and reviews are rife. Murmurings are not the same as policy and law. Special advisers and commentators are prone to floating stuff. Do not be drawn into respond mode, it will absorb too much energy and distract you from your long-term goals. Putting down markers and red lines can work, if done strategically and sparingly. There is much to be said for picking your fights even more carefully. 

Influencing windows always exist, however narrow they may appear to be.  

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