Specialist healthcare transport charity ‘no longer financially viable’

A charity that provides transport and support to people with special care needs to go on pilgrimages to Lourdes is closing amid financial problems.

The charity ACROSS is now working with the Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator on its dissolution.

In a statement the trustees of the Christian charity said that the decision to close “has not been taken lightly” and follows its conclusion that the charity “is no longer financially viable”.

“After exploring every possible option, the trustees concluded that ACROSS cannot continue operating in a financially sustainable way,” adds the statement.

“ACROSS has always been about people — our VIPs, volunteers, nurses, group leaders, supporters and families — and about making what often felt impossible, possible.

“Over many decades, together we enabled thousands of people to travel, to experience friendship, care, faith and joy, and to be part of something truly special.”

The trustees added: “Our focus now is on handling this transition with dignity, care and compassion. We are working to support staff, communicate openly, and ensure that the legacy of ACROSS is honoured.

“We also want to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has travelled with us, volunteered, cared for others, fundraised, supported, and believed in the work of ACROSS.”

The charity registered with the OSCR 26 years ago. According to its latest available annual accounts, for the 12 months to December 2024, it’s income was £792,772, however its spending over this period was £923,883. Its spending has outstripped its income in three of the last four years.

Other UK charities to announce their closure recently due to financial challenges include RoadPeace, a charity that launched more than 30 years ago to support road crash victims and their families. Its closure due to lack of funding and rising costs was announced earlier this month.

Just before Christmas Hidden Treasure Trust, a Christian-led community support charity that helps people impacted by poverty in Trafford, Greater Manchester, announced its closure amid financial challenges.