Local councils have voiced their support for those working in the third sector, it has been revealed.

In a study carried out by the Office of the Third Sector, the 198 new National Indicators (NI) - which measure the performance of such bodies - were revealed.

Of these, NI6 and NI7 - which call for participation in regular volunteering and creating an environment for a thriving third sector respectively - were shown to be among the largest priorities for local authorities.

About two-thirds of top-tier councils in England were shown to be in particular support of at least one of these two indicators in the years to come.

Phil Hope, minister for the third sector, highlighted the positive action that links as network partners between local councils and the third sector can bring.

He said: "I’m convinced that more volunteers and a genuine partnership between government and the third sector will strengthen communities and bring real improvements to all our lives, especially for the most disadvantaged."

Stuart Etherington, chief executive at the National Council of Voluntary Organisations, stated that a good relationship between third sector bodies and local government is crucial to the creation of "a thriving sector".

Last month, the Centre for Charity Effectiveness unveiled a new website aimed at supporting those setting up new community and voluntary organisations.

More about network partners.