NCVO publishes the Road Ahead 2025
NCVO has published its latest Road Ahead document to help guide charity’s decisions over the next year. The report examines challenges and opportunities that charities in the UK are currently facing. It highlights key issues such as economic pressures, shifting political dynamics, changing workplace environments, and the need for strong foundations to ensure resilience and sustainability. In summary, the key takeaways from the document are:
1. 2025 is the year of the ‘big squeeze’
The combined threats of falling funding, rising costs and growing demand are described as the as the “perfect storm” for UK charities. While risks are high, and organisations may need to restructure, merge, or reduce services to cope, there are opportunities for innovation.
2. Political Landscape changes
Charities need to get to grips with the new policy priorities and operational changes, including procurement reforms and spending reviews, that will shape our sector’s relationship with the new government. We need to engage strategically to ensure fair and sustainable funding.
3. Workforce Shifts
Charities need to address skills gaps, adopt new technologies, and attract and retain staff and volunteers (includsing trustees), if our sector is to overcome the challenges it’s facing. While AI and automation present opportunities, we need to be careful with our implementation of these technologies.
4. Strengthening Foundations
Our sector is strongest when it works together. Collaboration, good governance, resource sharing, strategy development, and financial sustainability are essential for our charities to navigate uncertainty.
