Communities 1st CEO Blog

The Role of Community Organisations in Tackling Inequalities    In our communities today, inequalities manifest in various forms, impacting health, opportunity, and wellbeing across different demographics. The NHS Long Term Plan and the pervasive effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have…

The Spring Budget and Its Significance for the local VCSE sector The Spring Budget presents both challenges and opportunities. It's an invitation to reflect on our priorities, advocate for inclusive policies, and work towards a future where every individual and community has the opportunity to…

What's in Store for 2024?     While it may be a bit late for "Happy New Year!" greetings, I invite you to approach this blog with the spirit of new beginnings and forward-thinking. As we embark on 2024, our traditional January reflection takes on new significance, particularly for…

Rebuilding From Burnout   The COVID-19 pandemic marked an unprecedented era for charity and non-profit leadership, introducing new challenges that required swift adaptation and resilience. As a CEO, I navigated our organisation through these uncertain times, which inevitably impacted my…

Addressing the Underlying Causes to Food Insecurity   Amidst the economic turbulence, Communities 1st has stood at the forefront, witnessing firsthand the deepening cost of living crisis that is placing undue strain on our community’s families. The need for substantial support mechanisms has…

The Quiet Crisis   As the days grow shorter, the arrival of the autumn and winter months provides a poignant moment for reflection. The change in seasons often amplifies the emotional undertones of our lives, making this an opportune time to address an issue that touches us all, yet is often…

The Unseen Backbone: Why Local Voluntary Infrastructure Deserves More than a Passing Glance   In recent times there has, rightly so, been a predominant focus on supporting 'front-line' work in the charity sector. This is highly understandable; it is where the immediacy of need appears most…

A Critical Look at the NHS Volunteer Responders Scheme and its Impact on Local Charities   The recent NHS Volunteer Responders (VR) social care seminar has left many of us questioning the efficacy and ethics of this top-down programme. It is certainly a subject that ignites passionate debate…

The Domino Effect of the Cost of Living Crisis: A Spotlight on Charities and Vulnerable Communities   In an era where "cost of living" has skyrocketed, its far-reaching implications for the most vulnerable among us and the organisations designed to help them cannot be overstated. This crisis…