May's musings - how involved should charities be in political life?

The last few weeks have seen me making random outbursts at the television and radio. The reason why? Well I’m afraid the run up to the General Election has seen me get more and more annoyed with politicians of all persuasions who have dodged questions or made grand proclamations.

I do enjoy a good bit of political knock about and was fortunate enough to attend the live broadcast of Any Questions organised by Eden Valley Hospice and hosted by the Rheged Centre. Eric Pickles, Chairman of the Conservative party gave a master class in old style political verbal sparring leaving the Health Secretary Andy Burnham reeling on the ropes.

But despite my anger and frustration I know the value of our democracy and opportunities afforded by the political process. My role allows me some insight into the complexities of the political world and I realise that we need politicians skilled in the art of the game.

Young people’s engagement and commentary in the run up to this election has impressed me. If our communities and our democracy are going to thrive we need people with skills and knowledge and passion and a wish to be leaders. We also need people who are able to question and challenge our politicians and local institutions if they are not doing the best they can for us.

Facing a world with less money after this election means we will need creativity, leadership, and vitality. I’m delighted to say that local and national charities provide young people with many opportunities to develop their confidence and skills. I’ve enjoyed judging the Young Farmers public speaking competition in the past and charities like Raleigh International and the Project Trust give young people real life challenges as well as adventures. The Scouting movement has never been more popular and with the support of volunteers through the Girl Guide movement the Community Foundation runs two ‘Youth Banks’. These are groups of young people promoting and managing their own local grant making programme. They learn to make decisions about spending money, manage meetings and consider competing interests and needs.

Some people are uncomfortable with charities becoming involved in the world of politics. Many national charities have produced their own manifestos in an attempt to promote the interests they represent. Although I have some reservations about the power some charities wield because of their wealth I strongly believe that charities should speak out. All charities were created to meet a need and it is entirely legitimate for them to spend their time and resources promoting that need.

What do you think charities role should be in the world of politics?
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