Backing the Backbone: Urgent Support Needed for Norfolk’s Grassroots Charities
As the UK marks Small Charity Week (23–28 June), Voluntary Norfolk is calling attention to the critical role small charities play in our communities. Without extra support, the mounting pressures they face threaten their survival.
Small Charity Week celebrates the essential contribution of grassroots organisations, but this year’s events come at a time of deep concern for Norfolk’s voluntary, community, and social enterprise (VCSE) sector.
According to Voluntary Norfolk’s report on the State of the Norfolk VCSE Sector in 2025, over 70% of charities in the county say their financial position has worsened in the last six months.
Challenges facing Norfolk’s VCSE Sector
With an estimated 10,000 VCSE organisations in Norfolk, including around 6,500 small and unregistered community groups, these charities are often the first to respond in times of crisis, from providing food and housing support to running youth groups and befriending schemes.
However, the report reveals that:
- 33% of organisations have had to draw on the reserves which provide a financial buffer against unexpected demands, making them less resilient
- 25% have cut services or activities in response to rising costs
- 50% say paid roles, such as volunteer coordinators, are now at risk
- 29% are relying more heavily on volunteers
Nicky Stainton, Joint Head of the VCSE Sector Support Team (Volunteering) at Voluntary Norfolk said:
“The numbers tell a stark story. Small charities are having to do more with less and that’s simply not sustainable. Meeting growing social, environmental and welfare needs while grappling with inflation, staff shortages, and funding uncertainty is pushing many to the brink of closure. Many are innovating brilliantly and at Voluntary Norfolk we’re proud to support them, but there is only so much that they can do.
“The current situation is unsustainable without long-term investment. We urgently need more flexible funding, smarter commissioning, and better collaboration between statutory partners and grassroots groups.”
Potential solutions to support our VCSE Sector
The Voluntary Norfolk report advocates for a threefold approach to support small charities:
- Core funding for sustainability, not just project grants
- Strategic partnerships that include VCSE organisations in decision-making
- Investment in volunteer support, training, and infrastructure
Despite the challenges, the report highlights the resilience and creativity of Norfolk’s VCSE organisations, many of whom are finding new ways to share resources and strengthen their networks.
Nicky Stainton continued: “This Small Charity Week, we’re not just celebrating our smallest charities — we’re standing with them. It is estimated that the VCSE contributes over £20bn to the UK economy and that’s before we talk about the community and social cohesion benefits. It is essential that it continues to thrive. With the right support, these organisations, particularly our county’s small charities, will continue to be the backbone of Norfolk’s communities for years to come.”
