As Small Charity Week gets underway next week (23rd to 28th June), attention naturally turns to the vital work carried out by small charities across the country. Here in Wiltshire, that spotlight shines on the 1,176 registered organisations quietly serving their communities, many without much fanfare or recognition.
While the celebrations are well deserved, a quieter, more pressing conversation is also taking shape — one that questions how financially resilient these small charities truly are.
David Eccles, Head of Distribution at Ansvar Insurance, knows only too well the challenges these organisations face. Speaking frankly, he said, “Small charities are brilliant at squeezing every penny to make an impact, but the current economic conditions are proving difficult. The goodwill and hard work are there, but without solid financial resilience, many are one unexpected event away from serious trouble.”
The figures lay bare the vulnerability. According to the NCVO, nearly eight out of ten small charities in Wiltshire operate on annual incomes below £100,000. For these groups, a single unforeseen expense or drop in funding could be devastating.
David continued, “It’s not just about covering everyday costs. The ‘cost of caring’ includes the potential fallout from legal disputes, sudden donation drops, or even cyber threats. These situations could cripple a small charity that runs on tight budgets.”
Ansvar Insurance is offering straightforward, practical advice to help small charities strengthen their financial footing. Their three-point approach urges organisations to:
Revisit risk planning – Proactively identify possible threats and ensure contingency plans are woven into day-to-day operations, not just confined to paperwork.
Protect people and assets – Review insurance cover to ensure it reflects how the charity currently operates, safeguarding staff, volunteers, property, and service users.
Seek sector-specific advice – Avoid off-the-shelf products which may not suit not-for-profit operations. Expert advice can save money while offering better protection.
Small Charity Week is a timely reminder of both the remarkable work these organisations do and the fragile financial tightrope many walk. While their work brings invaluable support to communities, ensuring they have the financial resilience to carry on is just as important.
David summed it up perfectly: “Celebrating small charities is important, but equipping them to survive and thrive in uncertain times is crucial. With the right support and preparation, their services can continue to reach those who rely on them most.”
Wiltshire’s small charities have weathered storms before. With the right approach, they can continue to do so, not just for this week, but for many years to come.
