‘Cost of Living’ Impact on our Voluntary Sector

The beginning of a new year can often come with fresh expectations, provide us with new resolve or give us opportunities to renew our efforts for the organisations and community groups we lead.  Unfortunately, however, we rarely get the chance to leave behind the challenges of the year just gone entirely.  Whilst the country endures winter and the worst cost of living crisis in decades, we are aware that this is having a real impact on many community groups and organisations. 

In the last few months of 2022, SCVO undertook research into the how the current financial crisis has been impacting, and will impact, our Sector organisations, and how significant the ripple effect on how we engage and support Sandwell residents is.  SCVO are now making the findings of this research available HERE.

The report illustrates the financial pressures experienced by the Sector, most often by those charities who employ staff and/ or own or lease their own buildings or office space.  It also highlights the many ways in which the Sector is adapting and flexing its support offer or extending help in new ways to those who most need it. 

SCVO’s Development Support Team is available now and throughout 2023 to support community groups, charities and other not-for-profit organisations active in Sandwell with practical help, guidance and support.  Whether it’s one-to-one information or training around governance and leadership, help with planning or fundraising, support with financial, staff or volunteer management, or situations of concern or crisis, SCVO can offer you friendly, professional and confidential help.  To find out more about SCVO’s support offer contact Stuart Ashmore, Deputy CEO on 0121 525 1127, or email: stuart@scvo.info