CHARITIES offering help to people who are struggling due to the cost-of-living crisis are themselves struggling.

The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) has revealed findings which show that 61 per cent of organisations are facing financial challenges, which comes at the same time as an increased demand for their services.

Maureen Allan, chief officer at Volunteer Centre East Lothian (VCEL), encouraged groups that were struggling to get in touch.

She said: “We know that nationally and locally, many charitable organisations are struggling with rising operating costs as the result of increases in energy bills and other costs.

“We want to make sure that those organisations who play such an important role in our communities are getting all the help they are entitled to.

“Many of those organisations will be entitled to the same help as businesses under the UK Government’s Energy Discount Scheme.

“I want to encourage them to check their entitlement to make sure they are not missing out.”

'Scale of the pressures'

The chief officer for the Tranent-based group praised all the charitable groups for their continued efforts.

She said: “This SCVO report shows the scale of the pressures on organisations and the impact on communities.

“I want to thank all the voluntary sector providers across the county, their staff and volunteers who, while having to deal with these financial challenges, continue to show the best of East Lothian – that we have strong, close-knit communities where we look out for each other.”

Kenny MacAskill, MP for East Lothian, described the services provided by various groups as “invaluable”.

He said: “I know that local charitable organisations as well as churches are all feeling the pressure as they seek to provide support in these difficult times.

“The services they provide are invaluable and yet come at a heavy cost to their almost invariably limited budget.

“It is important that they can access all the support they can get, as there’s a limit to the funds that they can otherwise get.

“Hopefully, the offer and guidance will be taken up so that all the hard work and effort of so many can continue.”

'Deeply concerned'

Paul McLennan, MSP for East Lothian, said: “These are worrying times – it is no surprise to me the number of voluntary organisations experiencing challenges while demand for services is ever-increasing.

“Understandably, many people are deeply concerned.

“The role of these services in our local communities is invaluable and a longer-term solution is needed to ensure they can continue to operate and cater for demand.

“In the meantime, VCEL can provide support to voluntary organisations who need support, relieving some of the pressures being experienced.

“I would encourage any organisation who needs this support to contact them.

“Thank you to the staff and volunteers of voluntary sector providers across the country for continuing to do all they can to support our communities and continuing to look out for those most in need.”

'Many are struggling'

Martin Whitfield, South Scotland MSP, said: “I know from my own interactions with charities and other voluntary sector organisations that many are struggling to maintain their operations and services, especially due to rising energy costs.

“Therefore, I very much welcome VCEL highlighting these issues and the advice and support available to the third sector.

“It’s really important that our strong network of community groups are able to continue providing support to communities and individuals through the cost of living crisis, and VCEL has a key role to play in assisting them with that vital work.”

Fellow South Scotland MSP Craig Hoy also encouraged organisations to get in touch for assistance.

He said: “I understand that many residents, businesses and third sector organisations are struggling to keep up with rising costs, and that now more than ever people are relying on third sector charities to get by.

“There is support on hand for those in need, and I am very happy to help signpost any resident, business or charity in need of financial support during this difficult period.”

To find out about the support VCEL can offer to local third sector organisations, call 01875 615423.