Small Charities Coalition and Charity Trustee Networks merge

The Small Charities Coalition (SCC) and Charity Trustee Networks (CTN) have today announced that the two organisations are merging with immediate effect.

Small Charities Coalition and CTN have always worked collaboratively but the decision to merge has been taken so that the new body can offer greater benefits and a more coherent offering to existing and potential members.

Cath Lee, chief executive of Small Charities Coalition, will become chief executive of the merged charity.

The names of both organisations will be maintained and plans are well underway to integrate and develop the services currently available to beneficiaries of both organisations.

Lee said: “The current climate means that we all have to look at how we can be most effective. With the Charity Commission cutting back on services and other umbrella providers losing funding in this area we anticipate that all charities and trustees – but particularly small charities – will have a greater need for support in the challenging months and years ahead.”

Debra Allcock Tyler, chair of the Small Charities Coalition, added: "This is a red letter day for small charities. Trustees and small charities form such an important part of our civil society that maintaining support during a period of financial constraint is essential.

"The merger will advance Small Charities Coalition business plans and will bring a new level of services and support to both small charities and to all trustees."

Rodney Buse, chair of CTN commented: "CTN has benefited greatly from the help of many supporters not least, the Office for Civil Society (OCS) over a number of years.

"CTN has developed a range of services in the support of trustees in their vital role, acknowledging that the greatest need and CTN’s most significant contribution has been to trustees of medium and small charities.

"In my last year as Chair, I am delighted to see that we have secured a future for the CTN activities, and with the Small Charities Coalition I believe their passion and commitment will drive support for trustees to new heights."