More than half of charities in the Highlands and Islands believe their use of reserves is unsustainable as they look to respond to rising costs and challenges.
The top challenges facing voluntary organisations in the Highlands and Islands relate to finances.
- Rising costs and/or inflation, up nine per cent to 42% since late 2025.
- Difficulties in fund raising 39% reported difficulties and 36% said they had financial or cash flow constraints in the past six months.
- No change in turnover for the majority 57%, an increase in turnover for only 27%
While 495 organisations participated in the Third Sector Tracker, Wave 12, SCVO (Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations) needs more to get involved.
If organisations have any questions about their latest research or about the Third Sector Tracker more generally, email research@scvo.scot.
Steve Grozier, SCVO Research Officer, said:
“Regional snapshots help us understand how challenges across Scotland’s voluntary sector differ. The more organisations that take part, the stronger and more representative that picture becomes. If your organisation isn’t already part of the Tracker, join us and make sure your region’s voice is heard.”
Voluntary Action Orkney number 681 organisations in its Community Directory which rely on the contribution of volunteers to provide services or for fundraising activities.
