Charities are facing an inevitable surge in demand after the raft of policy changes made by the government, the chief executive of the National Council for Voluntary Organisations has warned. 

Writing for Third Sector, Sarah Elliott says changes to welfare cuts, reductions in the Winter Fuel Allowance and uncertainty over the future of healthcare services all contributed to a “melting pot that’s ready to boil over”. 

She said the Department for Work and Pensions had estimated that 250,000 more people would be pushed into relative poverty by benefit cuts.

“It’s therefore inevitable that there will be a surge in demand among charities,” said Elliott. 

“From food banks to animal shelters to those offering mental health support – the ripple effect will be felt in every corner of our sector. 

“It is also likely that cases will become more complex as more people experience the compounding effects of changes to policy.”

In the column, Elliott talks about the government’s forthcoming covenant with the voluntary sector and says she hopes it will act as a vehicle for charities to be listened to as important policy decisions are made. 

“More can be achieved if we work together rather than against each other,” she writes. 

“It is vital that charities are involved at the outset in developing the policies, so the voices of communities and their experiences can be heard and underpin policy decisions.”

Read the full column here