Charities in Edinburgh that support vulnerable individuals are facing a significant funding cut of £4.5 million, putting many essential projects at risk. The Edinburgh Integration Joint Board (EIJB) is responsible for overseeing NHS Lothian and social care services in the city, and they have decided to slash grants that currently benefit 64 different organizations. These grants are crucial for these groups to carry out preventative and early intervention projects for residents in need, such as dementia patients, disabled youth, rape survivors, low-income individuals, and new parents.
Initially, the grant funding was set to continue until at least March of next year, but the EIJB is now proposing to end it by the end of January in an effort to reduce a significant financial deficit. This sudden decision gives charities only 90 days to secure alternative funding, jeopardizing the future of many important programs. Charities that are facing these cuts have expressed concerns that the decision will ultimately cost the city more in the long run and eliminate crucial support for some of the most vulnerable populations.
Outgoing EIJB chief officer, Pat Togher, warned that the organization is at risk of being unable to fulfill its fundamental responsibilities due to financial constraints. Despite making substantial savings in the past, there are still significant shortfalls that need to be addressed. Furthermore, an additional £50 million in cuts is required to balance the budget in 2025-26, making it clear that efficiency savings alone will not be enough to close the funding gap.
The impact of these cuts on the 64 charities will be substantial, affecting around 55,500 individuals in Edinburgh who rely on their services. Many of these organizations are dependent on EIJB grants to secure additional funding from other sources, making the decision to reduce funding devastating for them. Marjorie Mitchell, who runs a day care service for dementia patients in Portobello, expressed her concerns about the impact of losing a £4,000 grant from the EIJB. The service provides essential support and social interaction for its members, many of whom are socially isolated and heavily rely on the center for companionship.
Other organizations, such as the Ripple Project and the Community Renewal Trust, are also facing significant cuts that will have far-reaching consequences for the communities they serve. The proposed cuts could lead to job losses, service reductions, and increased pressure on NHS and council services, ultimately contradicting the Scottish Government’s emphasis on prevention and early intervention strategies.
In response to these cuts, SNP councillors have pledged to oppose the reduction in funding and seek alternative solutions to support these vital organizations. Council leader Cammy Day has blamed a decade of SNP cuts for the current financial challenges and has promised to engage with the third sector to find a way forward. The EIJB is committed to spending public money carefully and ensuring the best outcomes for the citizens of Edinburgh, even in the face of budget constraints.