By Caroline Harroe (Harmless CEO)
When a General Election is called, the government enters a period often referred to as ‘purdah’ or ‘pre-election period’. This typically begins several weeks before the election date and lasts until a new government is formed. During purdah, the government observes certain restrictions on its activities to ensure fairness and prevent any actions that could be perceived as influencing the election outcome.
What Changes During Purdah?
- Policy Announcements and Consultations: New policy initiatives, major announcements and consultations on potential legislation are generally put on hold. This is to avoid giving any party an unfair advantage or creating expectations that a new government might not fulfill.
- Government Communications: Official communications from government departments and agencies become more neutral and factual, avoiding any content that could be seen as promoting a particular party or policy.
- Ministerial Visits and Engagements: Ministers typically reduce their public appearances and engagements,focusing on essential duties and avoiding activities that could be perceived as campaigning.
- Grant Applications and Funding Decisions: While existing funding agreements usually continue, new grant applications and funding decisions may be delayed until after the election. This is because major financial commitments are often considered policy decisions that should be left to the incoming government.
- Publication of Reports and Data: The release of non-urgent reports, statistics or research findings may be postponed to avoid any potential political implications or interpretations.
Impact on Third Sector Organisations
The purdah period can have several implications for third sector organisations:
- Delays in Decision-Making: If your organisation is awaiting decisions on funding applications, new partnerships or policy changes, you may experience delays during this period.
- Uncertainty and Planning Challenges: The pause in policy development can make it difficult to plan for the future, as the priorities of the incoming government may differ from the current one.
- Limited Access to Information: The restrictions on government communications may make it harder to obtain information or clarification on specific issues.
- Potential Funding Gaps: If your organization relies on government grants, delays in funding decisions could create temporary financial challenges.
Navigating the Election Period
While the purdah period presents some challenges, there are steps you can take to minimise disruption and prepare for the future:
- Maintain Communication with Funders and Partners: Stay in touch with your existing funders and partners to ensure they are aware of your organisation’s ongoing work and needs.
- Focus on Existing Projects and Services: Use this time to consolidate your current projects and services, ensuring they are running smoothly and effectively.
- Prepare for the New Government: Research the manifestos of the different political parties to understand their priorities for your sector. This will help you to anticipate potential changes and adapt your strategies accordingly.
- Engage with Your Network: Connect with other third sector organisations to share information, discuss challenges, and collaborate on advocacy efforts.
While the purdah period may temporarily disrupt the usual flow of policy and funding decisions, it also presents an opportunity for reflection, consolidation and strategic planning. By staying informed, adaptable, and proactive, third sector organisations can navigate this period and emerge prepared for the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.