Capacitybuilders’ latest survey reports a bleak outlook for local support providers

Capacitybuilders’ fourth survey of local support providers, published today, shows that three-quarters (75%) of organisations that provide support and advice services to frontline voluntary and community groups expect their income to fall during the next 12 months.

Reduction in income

Nearly half of survey respondents (44%) have already seen a reduction in income over the last year – with over a third (37%) having suffered funding cuts from their local authority.

Impact on frontline groups

At the same time, there is evidence to suggest that frontline groups are also being heavily affected by these challenging economic times. 

Increased demand for support services

Demand for support services continues to rise, including a sharp increase in support services aimed at dealing with the expected impacts of public spending cuts, e.g. income generation, financial management and lobbying / campaigning.

Chair of Capacitybuilders, Stephen Dunmore, commented:

'This research provides further evidence of the vital role infrastructure organisations play in supporting the voluntary and community sector. 

Although half of respondents felt they were currently able to cope with the rising demand for their services, going forward it appears they will be under increasing pressure to meet the demands of frontline groups with ever dwindling resources.’

About the Survey

The first survey in the series took place in May/June 2009. Capacitybuilders plan to run a fifth and final survey in February / March 2011. All survey findings will be published by Capacitybuilders on the Improving Support website.