Community organisations under pressure: rising demand, shrinking funding
Thank you to the 61 organisations who took part in our survey about financial pressures and service demand. While not fully representative of the sector, the results closely match national findings in the State of the Sector report and paint a clear picture of the challenges many groups are facing.
Two-thirds of organisations in the Western Bay of Plenty reported rising demand for services, alongside more complex needs in areas like housing, mental health, debt, and cost-of-living pressures. At the same time, funding is not keeping pace – with many contracts renewed at the same or reduced levels, and no adjustment for inflation. Some groups are now forced to dip into reserves or cut back services, which isn’t sustainable.
This squeeze is taking a toll on staff wellbeing and puts smaller local providers at risk, particularly as government agencies increasingly favour larger organisations. Without fair funding that reflects the real cost of delivering services, community organisations cannot keep up with demand.
In response, SociaLink is planning local workshops and campaigns to support the sector, including a push for CPI adjustments on contracts, opportunities to explore new ways of working, and advocacy with regional and national partners.
Together, we can find solutions that protect the future of community services and the people who rely on them.
Click below to view the report.
