The UK Government’s Civil Society Covenant, published last month, is more than a policy statement—it’s a bold affirmation of the power of collaboration between government and civil society to build a better future. For us at Anthony Collins, the covenant reflects and reinforces what we are working to achieve, using the law as a force for good.

Working across sectors such as social housing, charities, local government, health and social care, social business, and supporting individuals through life’s most critical challenges, we see first-hand the transformative potential of civil society. The covenant’s principles—recognition, partnership, participation, and transparency—mirror principles we seek to promote.

As part of our commitment to doubling our social impact, we are deepening our own approach to collaboration and engagement with clients and communities to ensure that legal services are not just reactive, but proactive tools for change. The covenant empowers civil society organisations to be equal partners in shaping policy and delivering public benefit. This opens new avenues for our clients to influence decisions that affect their work—and for us to support them in doing so.

We are also committed to actively contributing to policy discussions in all our sectors. The covenant’s emphasis on participation and co-creation aligns with our approach to legal practice: one that is rooted in advocacy, collaboration, and systemic thinking. Whether advising on regulatory reform, facilitating stakeholder engagement, or supporting strategic litigation, we aim to ensure that the voices of those we serve are heard at every level of decision-making.

Moreover, the covenant encourages transparency and accountability—principles we champion through our work with clients who challenge injustice, promote equity, and drive innovation. By engaging stakeholders and fostering dialogue, we aim to help build the legal and policy frameworks needed for lasting change.

In essence, the Civil Society Covenant is a call to action. It invites us to reimagine how law, policy, and community intersect—and to do so with courage, compassion and clarity. 

We would love a conversation with you if you share this motivation. 

As we move forward, we will continue to align our work with the covenant’s vision, ensuring that our legal expertise contributes meaningfully to a more inclusive, resilient, and empowered society.