Over a third of charities facing uncertain future, says report

More than 30% of charities and community groups in Ireland say they are facing closure, or are unsure about their future survival.

A total of 23% say they are unsure of their future, with a further 12% saying that there is a risk that they may have to suspend their operations within the next year.

Nearly half say they have suspended or delayed projects in the past six months due to financial considerations.

The findings are contained in a new survey carried out by The Wheel, a representative body for community and voluntary organisations.

The report marks the launch of the Better Together campaign, a new initiative developed to bolster public support for the country's 19,000 charities, clubs and associations.

Commenting on the launch of the campaign and research findings, Deirdre Garvey, CEO of The Wheel said: "Charities, community and voluntary groups are facing their toughest challenge yet having taken a double hit in the past number of years.

"Not only is the demand for their services increasing, but their income levels are dropping: 60% have experienced a drop in income of up to 20% and 47% have experienced a drop in donations, leading many to curtail their services and even consider closure.

"The Better Together campaign aims to turn the tide on this and strengthen the sector by showing the public the amazing work happening in their communities and what they can do to help."

Launching the Better Together campaign, Minister for Social Protection, Joan Burton T.D. said: "The Better Together campaign is a true reflection of what is happening at a grass roots level in our communities.

"Up and down the country, people are selflessly helping others and are playing their part in making Ireland a more fair, inclusive and better place to live in.

"I welcome the launch of the Better Together campaign as it looks to build on the ground-swell of good work been done in our communities and encourages the wider public to get more involved."

The survey was conducted by The Wheel between May 17-24, 2011, among its 890 members, which includes charities and community and voluntary groups. The survey was completed by 128 respondents.