Calvert Devon, which has been delivering outdoor activities at its centre in the county for the last 30 years is to close, citing “significant financial and operational challenges” in recent years.

The charity said in a statement that it had explored “every available avenue to secure a sustainable future for the Devon centre”, including fundraising, appeals, operational changes and overhauling its activities programme.

“Despite those efforts, the Trustees have concluded that the centre is no longer financially viable and that closure is necessary,” added the statement.

“The decision has been particularly difficult because of the strength of feeling for the centre among staff, volunteers, supporters, customers and partners. There remains a deep belief in the importance of the work that Calvert Devon has delivered over the past 30 years.”

The charity was originally established as the Exmoor Calvert Trust to offer people with disabilities outdoor experiences at its centre at near the Wistlandpound Reservoir on Exmoor.

“Calvert Devon also played an important role within the wider outdoor learning and adventure community,” said its statement.

“The centre demonstrated that high-quality adventurous activities and genuine inclusion can work hand in hand. It helped develop the skills, confidence and understanding of staff working with people with disabilities and provided an environment in which practitioners could continually develop their approach to inclusive adventure.”

According to the Charity Register Calvert Devon has 36 staff and is supported by five trustees and 80 volunteers.

The charity’s spending has outstripped its income for three out of the last five financial years recorded by the Charity Commission, in 2020, 2022 and the following year.

During this five year period its income from government grants has plummeted from £267,240 in 2020, to £69,070 in the 12 months to November 2024. During 2023 it received under £4,000 in government grants.

Despite this dip its income from donations and legacies had increased markedly between the years ending November 2023 to November 2024 from £202,400 to just over £1m.

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