The third sector in South Yorkshire continues to play a vital role in addressing the challenges faced by local communities. Despite financial pressures, organizations across Doncaster, Sheffield, Barnsley, and Rotherham are innovating and collaborating to ensure their services remain impactful.
Financial Pressures on Charities
Many voluntary and community organizations in South Yorkshire are grappling with increased demand for services, coupled with financial constraints. Research by Sheffield Hallam University highlights that 80% of organizations report higher service demand, but only half have been able to scale their offerings to match. Rising operational costs are forcing some charities to reduce services or make tough operational decisions.
Cathy Harris from the Centre for Regional Economic and Social Research stresses the importance of financial sustainability during these challenging times. This serves as a reminder of the critical need for innovation and collaboration across the sector.
Exciting Leadership Changes and Funding Initiatives
South Yorkshire’s Community Foundation (SYCF) is set to appoint a new Chief Executive following Ruth Willis's upcoming retirement in May 2025. Under Ruth’s leadership, SYCF has grown its annual grant distribution from £400,000 to £1.7 million, significantly benefiting local communities.
Meanwhile, SYCF has launched the Sir George Earle Benevolent Fund Programme, offering grants between £500 and £3,000 to community groups aiming to reduce loneliness among older adults across the region. This initiative is expected to make a tangible difference in combating isolation.
Celebrating Third Sector Local Successes
Sheffield Churches Council for Community Care (SCCCC) was recently recognized with the prestigious GSK IMPACT Award for its 'Hospital to Home' scheme. This program supports individuals over 65 transitioning from hospital to home, providing transport, home adjustments, and care. Impressively, it has helped reduce hospital discharge delays and saved the NHS £850,000 annually.
Family Support and Grassroots Initiatives
Rotherham Council is investing £3.4 million to establish family hubs across Swinton, Maltby, and Eastwood. These hubs provide essential services, such as mental health resources and employment assistance, ensuring accessible support for families.
Additionally, NHS South Yorkshire has introduced a £1 million ‘This Is Us’ community fund, targeting areas in north-east Sheffield. By empowering grassroots projects, this fund aims to foster stronger connections and improve community well-being.
Join Us at Charity Hub
At Charity Hub, based in Doncaster, we’re committed to bringing charities and suppliers together to create lasting collaborations. Over the years, our network has led to incredible achievements—things we never imagined possible.
Through our events, networking sessions, and resources, we aim to connect like-minded individuals and organizations. Whether you're looking for advice, partnerships, or simply a chance to share your experiences, our events provide the perfect platform to grow and learn together.
Join our next networking event to discover how collaboration can lead to incredible outcomes! You can find out more about our mission and upcoming events on The Charity Hub’s website.
Let’s work together to tackle the challenges and celebrate the successes of South Yorkshire’s thriving third sector!
