Our strategic objectives are the basis for our 9 activity areas.

Our programme for the next year is laid out in our Operational Plan 2009 - 2010

Build capacity and governance in voluntary organisations by maximising the funding that reaches them, minimising the regulatory compliance and red tape burdens on them and by providing organisational development support. We recognise the critical role of good governance in voluntary organisations and aim to improve standards across the sector.

Enhancing effectiveness of infrastructure to build voluntary sector capacity as a whole by focusing on the intermediary bodies which link and support voluntary organisations by their area of interest and the network of local councils for voluntary service.

Support citizen action and encourage civic engagement, supporting individuals to get involved in voluntary organisations, both new and established. This includes increasing understanding why people get involved and on supporting them to do so, whether as volunteers, campaigners, staff, trustees or board members.  We have also supported people, to engage with each other through their own organisations and more effectively with the State.

Improving the voluntary sector's contribution to better public services,  by growing the share of delivery, where appropriate, carried out by voluntary organisations, and influencing the design and management of public services to harness the strengths of voluntary sector involvement.  For example, greater user-involvement and a more person-centred approach.  We believe real people should be an influential voice in the debate about transforming public services to meet the needs of future generations.

Promoting civil society interaction - working together to promote the shared values and interests of voluntary and civil society organisations such as trade unions and faith groups. We are Stonger Together.