We’re in the lead up to the festive season. It’s a time traditionally filled with warmth, togetherness and hope. But for many families in Chester (and across the UK too) it doesn’t feel like that at all. They’re grappling with worry, isolation and uncertainty. For families and individuals, Christmas often creates additional pressures. And this year could turn out to be one of the hardest yet.
Platform for Life is committed to providing life-changing support to those who need it most. We’re dedicated to helping individuals of all ages in Chester, including children, teens, and adults, who are battling mental health challenges. Unfortunately, the financial pressures our communities face also affect the ability of charities like ours to provide the essential services to those who need them.
Mounting pressures for charities: What the new National Insurance increases mean
In the recent UK budget, it was announced that National Insurance (NI) contributions will increase significantly from April 2025. While this is a policy intended to support important public services, it poses a new challenge for the charity sector. Charities, including ours, will face additional costs on top of an already stretched budget.
While some (certainly not all) businesses may have the capacity to absorb this increase, charities are in a much more vulnerable position. The National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO) is one voice amongst several urging the UK Government to reconsider applying these increased NI contributions to the charity sector. But it remains to be seen whether these appeals will have any impact.
Your support is needed more than ever
If the planned NI increases end up going ahead, it inevitably means we’ll be facing yet more financial pressure. This comes at a time when the demand for our services has never been higher. Waiting lists for mental health services in general are growing longer. Many individuals and families are finding themselves waiting months for mental health support. Some are simply told they do not meet the criteria for assistance. For those who are struggling right now, that’s the heartbreaking reality.
And that leads to them turning to us.
Platform for Life is a non- commissioned service. We depend on donations and funding from grants and trusts in order to carry out the vital services we provide in Chester. We rely on the kindness and generosity of people like you to continue providing our essential services.
Your support matters more than ever this Christmas
Mental health challenges don’t pause at Christmas. In fact, it can be quite the opposite – many people feel at their lowest during this time of year. Mental health struggles frequently escalate during the winter months. For some, this is a season of survival rather than celebration.
By making a donation to our Christmas appeal, you’ll help us continue providing support for children, young people, adults and families in Chester struggling with their mental health who need someone to turn to. Every donation, no matter how small, helps us sustain our vital services. By donating, you’re not just giving money; you’re providing a lifeline. Your contribution to our 181Christmas appeal will ensure that we can continue to provide support for those in desperate need. We understand that times are tough for everyone. But if you are able to, please consider supporting our Christmas appeal this year.
Together, we can help our community face the challenges ahead and ensure that no one in Chester has to face mental health struggles alone. Please donate today and help us make a difference. Thank you for your generosity and kindness.
