While the main purpose of the CVS Network is to provide support to voluntary and community organisations across Scotland, the Network also plays a part in influencing certain strategic or policy objectives including:  
     
Building Social Capital (Better Communities in Scotland) 
The CVS Network is well placed to build social capital at local level – principally through providing support services, promoting good practice and supporting growth in voluntary organisations which meet the needs of disadvantaged communities across Scotland.       

Developing the Social Economy
CVS actively influence and contribute to the development of policy relating to the social economy at a local and national level.  As key partners on the local social economy partnerships, they work collaboratively with other public and voluntary sector support agencies to develop a shared understanding of the sector and facilitate the development of new support services and opportunities for cross-sectoral working.  At a national level they work together through the Social Economy Working Group, to influence policy developments by the Scottish Executive, Communities Scotland, Scottish Enterprise and other key decision-making and funding agencies.

For further information, please see:

CVS Social Economy Audit - February 2006

Social Economy Working Group Update - July 2006

Social Enterprise Strategy for Scotland - a consultation response from the CVS Social Economy Working Group

Community Planning  
The CVS Network is committed to representing the interests of the voluntary sector at partnership, implementation and thematic levels of Community Planning Partnerships.  Their knowledge also enables them to facilitate local participation in the Community Planning process and provides a practical and tested vehicle for encouraging voluntary sector organisations to get involved in and influence the future of their communities.  Each area is organised differently and so if you want to know what is happening in your area you should contact your local CVS.  Information can also be accessed from many local government sites, for further details please visit the CoSLA website.