Five reasons 2025 will continue to be the year for charities to drive policy change

2025 presents a unique window of opportunity for UK charities to step into the role of policy and be in the driving seat of change. With political agendas still being shaped, devolved elections on the horizon, and public appetite for reform at an all-time high, there’s an opportunity for the sector to step up, moving from reactive voices to proactive agents of change. Here’s why this year is especially significant:

1. Post-election policy shifts

With the government still shaping its policies following the July 2024 general election, we remain in a period of political fluidity. This creates a valuable opportunity for charities to influence new policy directions, as ministers and civil servants are more open to fresh ideas and evidence-based proposals. Ongoing consultations across a range of policy areas offer the chance to provide input and share the bold ideas your organisation has been developing, helping shape the national plans and strategies for the years ahead. Specific and implementable ideas are the key here. 

2. Public appetite for change

After years of economic strain, NHS pressures, and social inequalities worsened by the pandemic and cost-of-living crisis, there is growing public demand for meaningful action on the things that matter. Charities can act as trusted voices, bringing lived experience and frontline insight to drive change at a time when the government is seeking answers. In areas of housing, health, environment, work and pay, transport and much much more, the public want to see better outcomes for their day to day lives all things charities’ influencing teams fight for every single day.

3. Shaping the agenda

There is an opportunity to move beyond reacting to government decisions, to focusing on shaping the agenda and sector narrative. This might mean redefining the debate on housing, health inequalities, or environmental action by offering practical, scalable solutions backed by research and community support. Or, it may mean bringing together experts by experience with leaders, trade bodies, and decision makers to have meaningful discussions that move the needle forward. 

4. Opportunities in devolution and local power

As more powers are devolved to mayors and local authorities, charities that get involved early can help shape policies that truly reflect local needs. At this moment, for some issues being active at the regional and local level is just as important as engaging with Westminster. Additionally, with elections in Wales and Scotland coming up in May 2026, now is the time to influence party manifestos, anticipate potential changes, and consider how they could affect your cause. 

5. Increased focus on impact and innovation

Charities already have a strong track record in service delivery. By embracing the opportunity to drive change, they can leverage their practical knowledge to inform policies and systemic change, not just patching problems but addressing root causes.

Overall, 2025 is a crucial year for charities to lead and influence policy change. Whether it’s shaping manifestos, feeding into consultations, or setting the narrative on key issues, charities have the insight, expertise and public trust to make a lasting impact. This is the moment to be bold, strategic, and collaborative.

If you’d like to explore how your charity can seize the opportunities this year presents and drive meaningful policy change, please get in touch, we’d love to support you in making it happen.