As 2025 draws to a close, many social enterprises, charities and community groups across Argyll and Bute will be taking stock of another demanding year. Rising need, ongoing financial pressures and workforce and volunteer fatigue have continued to test the resilience of our sector. Yet, throughout the year, we have seen inspiring examples of adaptability, collaboration and community leadership in every corner of the region.
Demand for funding, advice and support has remained high, with organisations continuing to step in where need is greatest — often with limited resources and significant uncertainty. At the same time, there are encouraging signs of progress. Conversations around fairer funding, co-production and prevention are gaining traction, and there is growing recognition at both local and national levels of the essential role the third sector plays in community wellbeing and public service reform.
As a TSI, our focus over the past year has been on strengthening the conditions that allow the sector to plan, collaborate and sustain its impact. This includes supporting capacity building, encouraging shared approaches, and contributing to emerging work around community wealth building, climate action and preventative health. Looking ahead to 2026, we will continue to work alongside partners to turn these conversations into practical change that benefits communities, organisations and volunteers alike.
In the meantime, we hope that the festive period offers you the chance — where possible — to pause, rest and spend time with those who matter to you. Your commitment, creativity and perseverance make an enormous difference to lives across Argyll and Bute, and we remain grateful for everything you do.
With warmest thanks and best wishes for the year ahead,
From all of us at Argyll & Bute Third Sector Interface
