As well as access to a range of services, including information via email groups and the detailed weekly Assembly Bulletin, membership of WEL can add significant value to the work of environmental Non-Governmental Organisations (eNGOs).

A key aspect of WEL membership is the facility for coordinated action, which can bring about a more concerted lobby for change and a stronger voice for environmental protection. Collaborative working amongst NGOs, and a recognised representative point of contact and consultation, are increasingly looked for by government, albeit on the understanding that such networks do not supersede the sovereignty of their members.

On major overarching issues of significance to a range of organisations, a WEL statement, position or response to a consultation may be produced, representing the consensus views of members. These statements reflect a collective membership which is larger than that of any of the individual NGOs, and therefore makes a stronger impact.

By working together, all organisations involved can be more effective, regardless of their size. Membership of WEL brings the following benefits:

• added credibility of being part of a movement with common aspirations and goals
• access to the skills, experience and resources of member organisations and their staff
• smaller organisations are strengthened through membership of WEL (by access to information, contact with others working on relevant issues, opportunities to raise concerns and seek broader support from the environment sector, opportunities to engage with government and decision makers)
• reduction in overlap and duplication of efforts within the sector and a more informed approach for individual NGOs
• a broadening of each other's agendas (where appropriate)
• contact with government, its agencies, and other key decision making bodies
• opportunity to initiate campaigning bodies on specific issues
• development of trust within the movement

WEL is the official link between the government and the voluntary environmental sector in Wales – should your organisation be a part of the network?

See How to join