New initiative aims to strengthen island charities

A new programme helping to strengthen health and social care charities in Jersey has been launched.

Jersey Community Foundation (JCF) said its Impact Accelerator Programme, with support from PwC Channel Islands, brings together 15 leading charities to collaborate on strategies for long-term funding.

On Tuesday, 50 third sector leaders and stakeholders gathered at the National Trust Jersey Cafe for the launch of the programme, where they examined the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats charities faced on the island.

Ali Cambray from PwC Channel Islands, said the programme helped charities provide a basis for attracting future and longer-term funding.

"By embracing a data-driven mindset and by sharing resources and a vision for the sector, we believe this group of charities can help shape a stronger, more resilient future for social care in Jersey," she said.

Mind Jersey, Les Amis, Dementia Jersey, Family Nursing and Home Care, Brighter Futures, FREEDA and Enable Jersey are just some of the charities taking part in the programme.

Chief executive of Family Nursing and Home Care Rosemarie Finley described the event as motivating.

Ms Finley said: "The opportunity to come together, share insights and agree a common vision reminded us all that while we are individual charities, we're also part of a broader movement.

"With the right support and evidence base, we stand in much better stead to secure the funding needed to meet Jersey's growing care."

JCF said the new programme began following the Value of the Third Sector report last year, which revealed the charitable sector on Jersey contributed more than £230m annually to the local economy.

It also revealed the sector employed 3,400 people, 12% of the workforce on the island, and mobilised more than 5,800 volunteers.

"Despite this, nearly 37% of charities report operating with less than three months' reserves, making financial sustainability a top priority," the foundation said.

JCF chief executive Anna Terry added: "By helping charities articulate their value more clearly and encouraging collaboration across the sector, we're laying the groundwork for more sustainable long-term funding – both from private donors and government."

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