At a four nations UK civil society summit, Mark Drakeford MS, gave his ‘six suggestions’ for successful Government influencing based on civil society’s unique relationship with Welsh Government for charities, voluntary groups, academics, trade unions and others.

Be authentic

He warns against the temptation of ‘following the latest fashion’, and that ‘shape shifting’ to meet funders’ needs would undermine relationships with Government. You must ‘be yourselves’ and be prepared to advocate when ‘wind is blowing in your face’.

Be authoritative 

When you have things to say, you must ‘do the work, have the power of argument firmly behind you’, drawing on the experience of people who are in direct contact with your services.

Be local 

Most powerfully, you must reflect the local experiences of people you are supporting. ‘Growing up in Riverside in Cardiff is very different to the experience of growing up in the Llŷn peninsula in north Wales’, and you need to reflect this.

Be there (where decisions are made)

It doesn’t matter how authoritative you are, you must remember to be there – ‘be in the room’ - and not absent when decisions are being made.

Be vocal 

Speak up for people who otherwise do not have any voice at all. We have lost some of those organisations who were willing to say difficult things.

Be bold

Many organisations are now less bold in the way they make recommendations. Debates are sharper, but moral courage is necessary.

You can read more here.