Government ministers have urged the voluntary sector to play a greater role in public services.

Home secretary David Blunkett and Treasury chief secretary Paul Boateng launched a report detailing 42 recommendations to overcome the barriers facing voluntary and community organisations in helping to deliver high-quality public services.

The two ministers announced £93 million of government funding as part of the £188 million for the Active Community Unit set aside by chancellor Gordon Brown in the comprehensive spending review earlier this year.

With extra cash set to boost the voluntary sector, ministers established the review to examine the relationship between the voluntary sector and the government.

It recommended that the cost of contracts for public services reflect the full cost of delivery and said that voluntary groups should be funded and equipped to work effectively with government.

The report also called for community groups to play a greater role in the planning as well as delivery of services.

The government argues that the £3.5 billion a year the voluntary sector receives from the public purse is proof of an already strong relationship, and says it sees an important role for the sector in helping to deliver world-class public services.

David Blunkett said he wanted to see a change in culture and a new relationship between government and voluntary organisations.

"We want a partnership of equals. A two-way relationship where government gives appropriate support to the sector, and the sector uses its experience and expert knowledge to deliver responsive, flexible services to their communities."

Paul Boateng said the review presented a challenging agenda for change."This report will reshape the relationship between government and the sector. I am confident that this heralds a new beginning and an improved way of working together," he said.