Blog
Why #SmallCharityWeek Matters to The STAR Centre
This year #SmallCharityWeek is highlighting how important small charities are to communities throughout the UK, and calling for greater investment in smaller, grassroots organisations. This movement means so much to us at The STAR Centre. As a small charity ourselves, we greatly appreciate all the events and opportunities for learning provided by Small Charity Week, and welcome the call to support smaller organisations like ourselves. Read on to find out more about the issues facing small charities across the UK and what you can do to help.
[Read time: 4 mins]
What is a Small Charity?
A small charity is a voluntary organisation with a social or charitable purpose with an annual income of less than £1 million.
What are the benefits of small charities?
Small charities are known for their ‘open door’ approach, being led by people with lived experience and have deep understanding of local issues
Small charities closely reflect the diversity of their local communities through their staff and volunteers
There are 163,959 voluntary organisations in the UK. 96% are small charities
Why do small charities need a dedicated week?
Small charities are embedded in their communities and a trusted source of support. Being smaller means small charities are agile and can pivot to respond quickly to new and emerging needs. But it can also leave them more exposed to challenges.
Cost of living pressures, layered on top of the lasting effects of the pandemic, following ten years of austerity means inequalities in communities are widening and there is increasing demand on small charity services. In parallel, costs of delivering services are going up and raising funding is more challenging, with increased competition and inflation eroding the value of income.
This Small Charity Week, we’re providing much-valued opportunities for training and events – and also creating a wider public conversation about the vital role of small charities in strengthening communities across the country.
Because when small charities are stronger, the communities they support are stronger too. - Small Charity Week
The Issues Facing Small Charities:
- Increasing demand, falling income and increased costs, small charities are under more pressure than ever
- If things don’t get better, more small charities will be forced to close their doors, which could leave people vulnerable at a time when they need them most
The Solution:
- When small charities are supported and resourced properly, they have the potential to create stronger communities
- Utilising the expertise of small charities ensuring their knowledge and insights help to guide future change
- Encourage commitment from large charities to be a partner of change and work alongside small charities to understand the drivers of and barriers to progression
- Small charities must be heard, represented and connected. So, communities everywhere aren’t just surviving but thriving
What YOU can do:
Encourage MPs and Local Councillors to show their support and commitment to our service
Attend debates
Write to your local MSP or Councillor
RSSSupport us
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