Voluntary organisations feel the squeeze

The County Council have removed £265,000 from their community education budget. This money was specifically used to subsidise the use of school premises by voluntary and community groups.

Very strong representations were made to the Leader of the County Council about this cut. It was predicted that the result would be that small groups would be priced out of the schools. It was feared that for many there would be no alternative - and this could see the closure of the group. In some cases it would mean that poorer families would not be able to afford increased fees.

The new financial year has only just started and already we have heard of cases where the costs of using schools has rocketed - in one case 300%.

The County Council need to have the results of their actions brought to their attention. I'm sure that they didn't intend to penalise these organisations which are doing such valuable work in their communities.

I am collating examples of rises in hire costs of schools to support our case. Could you please ask groups in your network to let me know about the outcome in their area.

email cedric@hcvys.plus.com