I have engaged with the voluntary sector in a variety of roles for thirty years. Most of the organisations I was involved with have either closed or merged with other organisations.
Panda Playgroup. Closed when premises demolished and no satisfactory alternative provided.
Crisis Recovery. Victim of covid.
Crossroads. Merged with other Crossroads
Good Neighbour Project. Funding issues
Mental Health Resource. Closed as funding did not cover costs.
Bridge Trust. Reduced funding led to merger with YMCA.
Church in Society. Closed by dioceses of Canterbury and Rochester.
Churches' Social Responsibility Group. Taken over by Churches Together.
Venn House. Closed by Church Missionary Society.
Tonbridge Evangelical Free Church. Closed
Westwood Road Evangelical Free Church. Closed
Cousley Wood Evangelical Free Church. Closed
Number One: Shadow of former self. Cafe and playgroup closed.
Rusthall Community and Youth Project. Inactive
The challenges facing the voluntary sector have been rehearsed in other posts on this blog. What is happening is tragic. The decline of the voluntary sector impacts on the wellbeing of many, particularly in local contexts. Vital support services are being lost to the detriment of communities and individuals.
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