One in five jobs at risk as World Wildlife Fund UK looks to save £5m

World Wildlife Fund UK (WWF-UK) has confirmed around 90 roles could be lost as it looks to make savings of £5m.

It says that staff whose roles may be affected are being consulted and are being offered voluntary redundancy as part of this process.

With a total headcount of 455, according to the charity register, the number of possible roles impacted amounts to one in five jobs at the charity.

“As part of our ongoing commitment to delivering the greatest possible impact to protect and restore our natural world, WWF-UK has undertaken a thorough review of our operations,” said the charity.

“Like many organisations in our sector, we are operating in a challenging external environment.

“Inflationary pressures, slower income growth and rising operating and people costs are affecting charities across the UK.

“To continue directing as much of our funding as possible towards our mission, we need to make careful decisions about how we work and how we are structured.”

Following a review of its operations a consultation process has begun on its restructure, says the charity.

WWF UK added: “We recognise the impact this may have on valued colleagues who have dedicated themselves to our cause, and we are committed to supporting everyone affected with compassion and care throughout the consultation.

These proposals are not being made lightly. They are about focus and resilience, ensuring our resources are directed where they can have the greatest impact.

“Strengthening our financial sustainability and enabling us to continue delivering science-based conservation, protecting habitats for wildlife and tackling the urgent challenge of climate change.”

WWF-UK latest accounts, for the financial years ending June 2024, show that its income was £92.46m, however it spent £95,425 over this period.

Among its employees six earn more than £120,000 a year, while a total of 62 earn between £60,000 and £100,000.

WWF-UK is the latest large charity to announce redundancy plans this year.

In October the National Trust confirmed 500 job losses due to “cost pressures”.

The previous month children’s charity the NSPCC announced it was consulting with staff to reduce its workforce amid a restructure. Around 250 jobs could be impacted by the move, which is around one in six of its total staff.