The ability to raise issues at the National level is crucial to both the role and the work of the voluntary and community sector. Ryedale Voluntary Action does this in several way:

• we have an input into consultations which seek information on the nature of the sector locally and its views on a variety of issues
• we keep the National Association of Councils for Voluntary Service, the NACVS, our National body, informed of issues both formally and informally through events and contacts
• we undertake specific lobbying action on issues of local concern, writing to MPs and Ministers as necessary.

Again, this aspect is vital to ensure that the issues of concern locally are raised and the voice of the voluntary and community sector is heard.

Recently we lobbied Ministers on the proposed changes to the funding for the Supporting People Programme as the changes will have a major impact on people locally, and as a consequence, the work of the voluntary and community sector.