Charities Report Increased Demand Amid Persistent Cost-of-Living Crisis

Benevolent charities are experiencing a significant rise in demand for their services and a shift in the profile of their beneficiaries due to the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.

Donal Watkin, Chief Executive of the Association of Charitable Organisations (ACO), which represents over 120 charities providing financial assistance, informed Civil Society that ACO members have seen a 7% increase in expenditure on financial support for individuals over the past year. Watkin attributed this rise to the cost-of-living crisis, describing it as a "symptomatic response."

He noted that, in addition to increased financial support, there has been a surge in requests for advice on benefits and other related issues. Watkin also highlighted persistent challenges such as stigma and uncertainty, with some individuals still hesitant to seek help due to feelings of unworthiness or societal expectations.

At ACO's annual conference panel discussion, Anna Dearden, Manager of the Chemists’ Community Fund, reported a rise in demand for financial assistance from younger professionals. Dearden explained that many younger workers, earning minimum or slightly above minimum wage, are struggling to meet their living expenses despite being employed.

The charity aims to support beneficiaries while avoiding long-term dependency.

Aileen Edmunds, Chief Executive of the Longleigh Foundation, a grant-making social housing charity, shared similar concerns. She noted that individuals who were previously self-sufficient are now struggling, and the increasing demand for assistance is coupled with restricted funding availability due to the cost-of-living crisis. Edmunds described the situation as a "perfect storm," with reduced government funding exacerbating the problem.

While the Longleigh Foundation has managed to secure strong support, Edmunds observed that many of her colleagues are struggling to find funding while facing a growing demand from those in desperate need.