Report

Drowning not waving

This report from UK think tank the Centre for Social Justice outlines a bleak future without urgent action to support Scotland’s vital charity sector.

In September 2023, the CSJ office in Scotland embarked on a mission to understand the challenges faced by grassroots charities. Through polling 1,000 people in Scotland and engaging with 80 charity executives, a grim picture emerged: increasing poverty, failing public services, and overburdened charities struggling with reduced funding.

A shocking 82% of the polled public observed a worsening poverty situation, a consequence of public service failures and shrinking charity budgets. Charities echoed this, noting rises in “in work” and child poverty due to unstable, low-paid jobs and a growing benefits trap. The mental health of young people is in crisis, with schools reporting entire classes needing support. Isolation among the elderly is also rising, with two-thirds acknowledging it’s getting worse.

Charities face financial strain, dealing with complex issues meant for public systems, all while navigating short-term funding that limits their operational capacity. Staff burnout and a scarcity of volunteers—85% of Scots don’t volunteer—further strain the sector. Deteriorating relationships with government entities compound these challenges, as charities feel the pressure of budget cuts and a “master-servant” dynamic.

The CSJ’s “Drowning Not Waving” report starkly outlines these issues, signalling a bleak future without urgent action to support Scotland’s vital charity sector.