First, to follow up on the two crucial items from last month. Impact of Employer National Insurance Contributions: regrettably, if predictably, the Chancellor has very politely refused to reconsider her position – read the response here. This leaves many medium sized charities with large increases in wage rolls and little or no change in expected income. That said, we are in active conversation with major funders locally including the county council, and we are pleased that some district councils have already indicated a willingness to review and uplift grants and contracts from April 2025 to reflect this position. We would strongly encourage anyone who is affected to speak to their funders and investors at the earliest opportunity and be as open as you can be. Further to this, we at Support Staffordshire are exploring other creative ways to reduce costs including a little-known option for pension contributions known as salary sacrifice – if you are affected and want to chat through options please get in touch. Secondly, the proposed Civil Society Covenant. I have now had the chance to express my concerns and offer my alternatives through the consultation and was pleased to engage in what felt to be a proper and meaningful discussion convened by both NAVCA and one convened by NCVO over the last few weeks. If you have the heart, please still; respond before the closing date of Thursday 12 December at midday.
To more local matters and two big bits of Health & Wellbeing news. Following an internal promotion, we are seeking a new Healthwatch Manager from February 2025 – full details here. We really welcome informal conversations in the first instance of you are not sure what the role involves, have any questions or want to check in on your relevant experience. The deadline is also Thursday 12 December, this time at 9am. Next, I am absolutely delighted to announce that Support Staffordshire has achieved the Bronze Thrive at Work Award for its outstanding commitment and practice in employee wellbeing – just one more reason to apply for our vacancies. Details here, but well done to Sandra, Becky, and the Thrive at Work group for making us such a great place to be.
And last but not least, check out our Green Advent Calendar for alternative, sustainable ways to enjoy the festive period. And please do have a restful Christmas and New Year wherever you can; 2025 is already looking a challenge so lets all ensure we are equipped for the task – I know we will continue to succeed as a sector, we always do, no matter the size of the mountain in front of us.
Garry Jones (he/him)
Chief Executive
Support Staffordshire
