A government readout published on 19 October 2026 reported that the Civil Society Council met at the King's Trust in Manchester on 15 October 2026. The Prime Minister opened the meeting, describing civil society organisations' contribution to communities and arguing for a whole-government, whole-society approach to supporting people as they grow up and tackling youth unemployment as part of a 10-year plan to be published later that year. He cited partnership, the Covid experience and faith communities, and pointed to Live Well in Greater Manchester as a joined-up, person-centred model with civil society as an equal partner.

The Council proposed a deep dive into the principles of Live Well and other community-led models, to be taken forward by a coalition of partners with Department of Health and Social Care sponsorship. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said civil society should be a respected and trusted partner at every level of government as devolution accelerates. Sally Jameson, minister for the No10 North Devolution strategy, set out the government's vision for devolution and public service reform and invited reflections on structures, capability and incentives. Vicky Foxcroft, minister for civil society and youth, discussed opportunities for young people, including confidence, skills and support as they move into work.

Council Chair Kate Lee closed by thanking members and noted progress since the previous meeting on civil service capability, public participation, procurement changes and volunteering rates, with actions agreed ahead of the next meeting.