Like so many charities today, KingsCare is facing multiple challenges while continuing to support the communities of Kingsteignton and Newton Abbot. We are facing unpredictable and challenging times – the impact of which means that we must re-organise and review all of our services and analyse our costs. Our deficit was very large in 2024/25, leaving us in an extremely vulnerable and unsustainable position. For KingsCare to succeed in these difficult times, we must accept and adapt to change, requiring a degree of flexibility, vision and humility.
As President John F Kennedy said, “Change is the law of life. And those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss out on the future.”
We are not alone. The National Council for Voluntary organisations (NCVO) says:
“The unpredictable and challenging times the charity and voluntary sector has experienced in recent years look set to continue in 2025. For many organisations, the ‘perfect storm’ created by funding falling, costs increasing and demand climbing remains. And, with the public under significant financial pressures of their own, charities are feeling the strain and face increased competition for every pound. The coming financial year will be a squeeze for many, and the risks this poses could be high. But necessity also creates opportunities for innovation.”
Kingscare enjoys huge community support and it is this which gives the Charity its unmatched focus and drive. We now need to harness this support, embrace change, and ensure that we do all that we can to build a future for Kingscare.
Firstly, a massive thank you to the already established family of Volunteers who give so much time and love in support of others. Whether their role at KingsCare is in our charity shop, a volunteer driver, a befriender, a personal shopper, a social activities host or driver, a walk leader, a cake baker and so many more, the Kingscare Team thanks you for everything that you do. We recognise that some changes, even minor ones, seem large to some of you, but we need to pull together now and rebuild KingsCare.
We will be doing our best to be innovative, creative and responsive to these challenges. We remain committed to the South Devon Wellbeing Partnership and our NHS and Social Care colleagues. We will ensure that we re-connect and broaden our focus on how we may support people in our communities as well as continuing to offer transport to medical appointments. Our Social Activities calendar will be reviewed and improved as well as ensuring that we, in future, cover our costs.
Each and every client is important to us and each and every volunteer is important to us. Our ethos and principles remain unchanged; our vision now needs to turn into reality.
Best Wishes,
Jayne.
