Readout of the Civil Society Council: 15 October 2026

The Prime Minister opened the Civil Society Council meeting at the King’s Trust in Manchester, highlighting civil society organisations as essential to community support and economic opportunity. He underscored the need for a whole-government approach to youth unemployment as part of a forthcoming 10-year plan, stressing collaboration across sectors. The PM cited the Covid-19 response and faith communities’ contributions as examples of effective civil society partnerships in delivering local solutions.

The Council proposed a deep dive into the principles of the Live Well in Greater Manchester initiative, which uses a person-centred, civil society-led model to improve access to support. This work will be led by a coalition of partners under the Department of Health and Social Care’s sponsorship, informing broader neighbourhood health transition efforts. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy MP emphasised civil society’s role as a trusted partner in government, particularly as devolution accelerates.

Minister for the No10 North Devolution strategy, Sally Jameson MP, outlined the government’s vision for devolution and public service reform during a session on rewiring the state. She invited Council Members to reflect on structural changes needed to shift power closer to communities, focusing on capability and incentives. The discussion aimed to align government and civil society efforts in empowering local decision-making.

Minister for Civil Society and Youth, Vicky Foxcroft MP, joined a session on opportunities for young people, exploring how government and civil society can collaborate to build confidence, skills, and support for youth transitions into work. Council Chair Kate Lee concluded by reviewing progress on civil service capability, public participation, procurement reforms, and volunteering rates, outlining actions for the next meeting.