How the Third Sector relates to Public and Private Sectors.

More than four in five charities and social enterprises have been badly affected by the economic downturn, all remain optimistic about the future, according to a new survey by award-winning social enterprise CAN Mezzanine.

Conducted just before the General Election, the survey included a range of Third Sector organisations and found that half had reported a drop in cash flow, one third had experienced a drop in donations and grants, and all reported having to make cuts in overheads – with half reducing staff costs and half targeting other outgoings.

The survey found that a majority of charities were looking to expand their trading activities and explore new markets, while others were considering mergers and other collaborations.

“These findings show how robust and inventive the Third Sector is in combating the negative impact of the recession,” says CAN Chief Executive Andrew Croft. “While these are undoubtedly challenging times and many organisations are struggling, this may present an opportunity for social enterprises – as suggested from the survey – to diversify and increase trading.

“There is also considerable support there for charities reliant on state funding to become more entrepreneurial. But for those charities whose primary focus on campaigning, advocacy or service delivery, the entrepreneurial route is not necessarily the answer. Good times are ahead for some, although the journey may be painful in the short term.”

MORE: www.can-online.org.uk

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