A Glasgow charity is fearing for its future after admitting they are in “desperate need of money”.

Spirit of Springburn – which offers services such as a community fridge, food bank and mental health support – said they are struggling to keep afloat as grants and funding are becoming increasingly scarce for charities in the city. 

Glasgow Times:

Helen Carroll chairperson at Spirit of Springburn said: “We are finding it very difficult right now, especially in post-pandemic and the current cost-of-living crisis. 

“We want to help locals in our area, but we are providing a lot of services with very little funding.

“We are in emergency mode, and we need funding.

“People here are in poor places which is not their fault, and we cannot afford to take the risk of closure.”

The charity, which was set up in 2019 and is run by Springburn residents, receives a small amount of funding from the Glasgow City Council's Area Partnership  - but it is simply not enough. 

Helen said that Glasgow City Council should have more to offer communities and charities that are providing a vital service to the local area.

Though the council may be struggling themselves, Helen said, she added that the local authority's lack of available funding is greatly worrying.

Glasgow Times:

She said: “We desperately need money because there is less support coming from Glasgow City Council.

“The council needs more funding as there just is not enough to keep charities afloat. Many charities closed during the pandemic because of the lack of funding. They need to help the groups that are providing a service.

"I wish Glasgow City Council could realise that charities are here and are lifting up the community. We do everything ourselves because Springburn needs these services."

The charity's growing concern over the issue of money has led them to launch a fundraising page on Crowdfunder.

Helen said: “Day-to-day we are taking on whatever case comes through the door – we don’t have time to even fundraise for ourselves or promote our current fundraiser.

“We and other places – even the council – are just flat out right now. It’s been difficult.”

A spokesman for the council said: "Last year we allocated a three-year funding package worth almost £50million for third sector groups across Glasgow.

"The Glasgow Communities Fund sought to ensure the available funds were shared fairly and as evenly as possible with charitable groups who support communities, equalities and arts and culture throughout the city.

"Unfortunately the fund was over subscribed with applications and there were organisations who missed out.

"For those who were left disappointed by the funding process, we offered feedback, support on capacity building and financial advice on other sources of funding.

"The council has faced significant financial challenges in recent years and there is limited pot of money available from the council for third sector groups.

"We always seek to use council resources as effectively as possible to meet the needs of residents and communities."

To donate to the Spirit of Springburn’s fundraiser, click HERE

Spirit of Springburn is based inside the Springburn Shopping Centre.

You can find out more about the charity HERE