This week, UNISON will be challenging the government's 'Big Society' notion at a roundtable event in the House of Commons.

Make no mistake, the big society is all about saving money. It places impossible demands on an already cash-strapped charity and voluntary sector as well as seeing staff taking over the jobs of skilled public sector workers.

A recent UNISON report revealed that the voluntary sector stands at breaking point. Huge pressures, lack of resources and falling standards hit charity workers during the economic downturn and they are still battling to recover after the recession.

Yet the government expects this struggling sector to take over and keep vital public services running.

The 'Big Society' will be a big mistake for all those who rely on vital services, including the most vulnerable in society.