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Resilience for Small Charities: What Does It Really Mean Today?

 

Stronger communities are built on the foundation of resilient charities. But in today’s challenging landscape where costs are rising, funding is shrinking, and demand for services continues to grow, what does resilience really mean?

Is it about continuing with business as usual? Seeking more support and resources? Or is it about fundamentally rethinking how we work, collaborate, and deliver impact?


Understanding the Current Landscape

Small charities are the heart of our communities. They are diverse, grassroots organisations delivering vital services with dedication and passion. Yet these organisations are facing unprecedented challenges.


Unlike larger providers, small charities often lack the resources and capacity to weather storms. Many operate in isolation, juggling increasing demand with fewer hands and tighter budgets. The loss of funding, particularly contracts going to bigger organisations, is not just a setback but can mean closure for some.


Despite this, the need for small charities has never been greater. As they stretch to meet growing demand, they must simultaneously increase capacity that results in raising their operational costs and deepening the pressures they face.


A recurring theme in sector conversations is the importance of moving away from over-reliance on grants and trusts. But for many, this brings anxiety about becoming ‘too commercial’. The real goal, however, is financial resilience so that you have the space and confidence to plan ahead, focus on your mission, and even grow your impact.


Also it is important to note that innovation is woven into the ethos of small charities. But when day-to-day survival dominates, that innovation can become blurred or forgotten. 


So how can small charities navigate this?

  • Rethink your financial strategy: Reassess how you manage costs and bring in income. What’s working now? What’s holding you back? Without change, three years from now may look the same and that’s not sustainable.


  • Stay mission-led and people-focused: Build internal capacity, but keep your eyes open to external opportunities. Your values are your anchor.


  • Collaborate: Whether through long-term partnerships or short-term projects, collaboration is key. We are stronger together.


  • Find inspiration from peers: Other organisations may look different, but they are likely facing similar challenges. Connect, share, and build a supportive network.


How 3SG Can Help

At 3SG, we believe in the power of small charities. Our members are the backbone of our grassroots communities so when they thrive, so do we.


We’re currently delivering the Social Economy West project, designed to support you with tailored, fully funded consultancy and mentoring. Whether you need more time, specific expertise, or a space to connect and grow - we’re here to help!


Through Social Economy West, we offer:

  • 1-to-1 consultancy

  • Pro bono mentoring

  • Workshops

  • Local and regional peer networks

  • An Accelerator Programme


This support is designed for you, with you. Whether you’re a charity, community group, social enterprise, or co-operative based in Bath and North East Somerset, we encourage you to apply.

With access to practical tools, expert advice, and a supportive network, we’ll help you:

  • Identify and seize opportunities for sustainable impact

  • Navigate growing demand with confidence

  • Build financial resilience and embed environmental sustainability

  • Strengthen risk management

  • Diversify income and reduce dependency on short-term funding


Let’s build a future where small charities not only survive but thrive because resilient charities mean stronger, more connected communities.


Interested in joining Social Economy West or want to know more? Get in touch with us at [insert contact link or details here]. Apply now by completing the application form here: https://www.businesswest.co.uk/grow/social-economy-west


If you have any questions or would like to talk about the programme in more detail, please get in touch with our Project Manager - Alfiya Khan at 3SG: alfiya@3sg.org.uk.


Find out more about Small Charity Week here: https://www.smallcharityweek.com/


Small Charity Week defines a small charity as a voluntary organisation with a social or charitable purpose with an annual income of less than £1 million. This includes registered charities, community groups, community interest companies (CICs) and other structures.


If your small charity would like to become a 3SG member, you can find more information here. Alternatively, please get in touch and we'd be happy to have a chat - contact@3sg.org.uk


Additionally here are few more resources from our sector partner Media Trust -  :

Free upcoming events:

Low-cost courses/events:

Free resources:


DSC Resources:

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