Charities considering forming coalitions to further the reach of their campaigns are to get guidance in a new publication.

The National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO) is releasing information on the pros and cons of coalitions and the impact they can have on campaigns.

It highlights the potential pitfalls of forming coalitions, offering advice about agreeing shared objectives, structures and decision making – and leaving a campaign legacy.

The Make Poverty History Campaign is one example of a coalition that has really caught the attention of the media, the public and the government. Literally hundreds of charities from around the world have signed up.

Another example is the Smokefree Action campaign, which is fighting to ensure that Britain becomes fully smoke free once new laws come into effect from July 1st.

The NCVO’s publication has been produced by the organisation’s Collaborative Working Unit and Campaigning Effectiveness Programme, which aims to help charities boost the overall impact of their campaigns.