|
|
|
 |
Council cuts third sector funding |
|
Falkirk Council, on 10th February, agreed a 3% cut to all voluntary sector funding. This is a blow at a difficult time. The impact of cuts on many in the voluntary sector will be hard to bear. Falkirk Council has traditionally been a strong supporter of our sector and we are working with them to deal with the impact of these cuts. Other local authority areas have imposed bigger cuts on the sector and in this sense Falkirk Council has tried hard. Elected Members have faced tough choices and we know that the final decisions on cuts to the sector were not taken lightly. However, we also know that, due to varying issues linked to the recession, many will struggle to survive.
As the Council for the Voluntary Sector (CVS) and Volunteer Centre we are committed to ensuring there's a thriving and sustainable sector in our area, making our communities healthier, stronger and better places to live. We are keen to support organisations at this difficult time and will continue to press the Council and others to fund the sector.
It is sadly ironic, that in such a financial crisis, just as people need the support of the voluntary sector more than ever, many organisations face unprecedented challenges to survive. These organisations are the lifeblood of communities, providing care and other services, as well as much valued local clubs. Donations are down, the number of grant makers and grants are declining, the size of grants is declining and the bank balance of almost every organisation is reducing at an alarming rate.
Our sector is quick to respond to need and has survived many and varying challenges over many generations and continues to deliver services where they're needed most. Local people have been eager and quick to support the work of these hundreds of organisations - by donating goods or their time as a volunteer and money where they can. We need this valuable support to continue, more than ever before, as we face considerable challenges for the financial viability of so many, often with increased demand on all our services.
It's likely that every one of our citizens has been touched or supported in some way by a charity, voluntary organisation or community group. Many aspects of life in Falkirk and the surrounding area are enhanced by our vibrant community and voluntary sector. The organisations and individuals that work and volunteer here make a significant contribution to the strength and wellbeing of our communities - including our local economy. Almost 1,000 organisations, employing around 1,200 people, engaging some 30,000 volunteers contribute and benefit almost £30 million each year to Falkirk's economy.
I can't imagine a society without volunteers and a strong voluntary sector. The reality is that this requires financial support as well as the skills and commitment that volunteers bring. I urge all citizens in the Falkirk Council area to support the work of the unsung heroes in our communities, often working for no financial reward. Please contact us at the CVS and Volunteer Centre for information on how you can do this.
Kenny Murphy
Chief Executive
CVS and Volunteer Centre Falkirk.
|
|
|
» Click to view more news items
|
« Return to Home Page »
 |
|
|
|
