Government Response: Strengthening Partnerships Consultation
The Government has published its response to the consultation on partnership working between Category 1 responders and the Voluntary, Community & Faith Sector (VCFS).
Key outcome: There will be no statutory change to Regulation 23 of the Civil Contingencies Act at this time. The Government concluded there was no clear consensus that this change would meet the Grenfell Inquiry recommendation’s intent.
Why This Consultation Happened
The Grenfell Tower Inquiry highlighted the vital role of VCFS organisations in emergencies and recommended stronger partnership duties for Category 1 responders. The consultation explored whether Regulation 23 should be amended to require responders to establish and maintain partnerships, rather than simply “have regard” to VCFS organisations.
What Happened
Consultation ran July–September 2025.
165 responses:
100 from VCFS organisations (thank you to those who contributed!)
65 from Category 1/2 responders.
Our Position
We advocated that a change to the statutory duty would help, and it should be supported with resource to make the cultural and practical shifts needed. Whilst we recognised that regulatory change alone wouldn’t solve everything and that implementation would have been complex, postponing and taking no action at this point is disappointing after significant engagement.
However, we are pleased that:
The consultation confirmed consensus on benefits and the need for investment.
The findings give us a strong foundation to push for practical improvements now.
What We Learned
Despite no commitment to regulatory change now, we are pleased to note that the consultation revealed strong shared views:
Benefits of stronger partnerships:
Improved emergency response – 79% of Category 1 responders, 52% of VCFS organisations.
Sharing community knowledge – 65% and 53%, respectively.
Clear communication channels – 43% and 47%.
Investment is critical:
71% of responders and 70% of VCFS said additional funding is essential.
Many anticipate financial strain without further support and resource.
Challenges remain:
45% of VCFS groups reported delays or failures in emergencies due to poor engagement (vs 5% of categorised responders).
14% of VCFS organisations said they “always” face barriers to partnership working (vs 2% of responders).
Government’s Next Steps
Further analysis of consultation data.
Explore non-regulatory improvements and implement these sooner rather than later, recognising the value of strong partnerships.
Consider regulatory changes during the 2027 Civil Contingencies Act review.
Where We Go From Here
We will continue working with Government to ensure non-regulatory actions deliver real results.
We will work with partners to normalise VCFS presence in strategic and practical discussions locally and nationally.
We will champion funding, the introduction of clearer frameworks, guidance, and dedicated roles at local level that will develop and sustain meaningful partnerships.
We will continue to showcase good practice and amplify the voices of our partners in these conversations, building our case with decision makers.
Let’s keep momentum for the 2027 Civil Contingencies Act Post Implementation review, which is our opportunity for lasting statutory change. Let’s ensure together that we support this effort with willingness to collaborate and a strong evidence base.
Thank you for your ongoing contributions and commitment to building whole-of-society resilience. We’ll keep you updated and welcome your ideas on next steps.