Defending our Democratic Space
In 2022, we spoke to charities, organisations, grassroots campaigners, and people beyond civil society. We heard concerns about specific threats to democratic space. Yet, the bigger picture emerged as the greatest concern – we heard the overall problem is serious and growing, but is largely going unnoticed.
This report documents the problem, asks why it is happening, and shares strategies we can use to counter the threats.
Trustee attitudes to campaigning
We surveyed 165 charity trustees on their attitudes, appetite and understanding of speaking out, campaigning, charity regulation and more.
The Social Change Project
We continuously ask ‘what can we learn about how social change is happening today that can strengthen civil society?
Protecting the space to campaign
Civil society’s right to speak out is vital to our democracy. It’s something we champion and fight to protect.
Amplifying campaigners’ voices
What’s happening with change-makers? Our Annual Campaigner Survey helps us speak up more powerfully for them. Read more >
SMK policy and research reports
The Chilling Reality Report
Is the Lobbying Act affecting civil society’s ability to campaign? The evidence says ‘yes’.
The Social Power Report
How civil society can unleash ‘Social Power’ by being bolder and braver, and new tools to help you think differently.
The Power Project Report
The Power Project calls for a new way of thinking about power, and action to build solidarity in social change.
Trustee Survey Results
We surveyed 165 charity trustees on their attitudes to speaking out, campaigning, charity regulation, and more.
SMK Campaigner Survey results
Curious about Change?
The Change Network is a chance to explore change, expand your understanding, and connect with other change-makers.
Latest blogs and articles
Politicians and charity campaigning: what did we learn at party conferences?
With the next election on the horizon, it’s time to think about the distinctions emerging from this year’s party conferences. The 2023 gatherings of party loyalists, civil society, big business, and everyone in between are likely to be the last before the election,...
Wildlife Trusts: making ‘being bold’ more than a mantra
Joan Edwards, Director of Policy & Public Affairs at Wildlife Trusts, reflects on how they are building the ability of their organisation and their allies to speak boldly into the public debate. It’s hard to argue that the benefits of healthy, abundant wildlife...
Why the most boring policy recommendation for the next Government may be the most important
Mariam Kemple Hardy of Oil Change International reflects on a vital priority for campaigners in the run up to the next general election. I’m going to start this blog with a health warning: everything that follows assumes two things. First, that we will have a new UK...