Charity placed in administration after 60 years

A charity that has served its local community for almost 60 years has gone into administration.

Community360 provided transport, mobility vehicles, advice and networking opportunities for people and organisations in Essex.

While costs scarcely changed, the Colchester-based charity saw its income drop from £5.39m in 2023-24 to £2.76m in 2024-25.

In a public statement, the trustees said it was "with enormous sadness" that the decision had been made "following a prolonged period of financial challenges".

It said services delivered through Community Roots would continue independently.

The charity has 82 employees and 46 volunteers.

The statement read: "Despite the considerable efforts of our trustees, staff and supporters, it has not been possible to secure a sustainable financial future for the organisation.

"Our immediate thoughts are with the people who rely on our services, as well as our dedicated employees, volunteers and partners.

"We recognise the uncertainty and concern this news will cause."

It expressed its "sincere gratitude" to supporters over the years and said the formal appointment of administrators was expected to take place in the coming days.

Colchester City Council said it recognised the "positive contribution" the charity had made to Colchester and beyond for many years.

A spokesperson said: "Our focus now is on understanding the impact this will have on residents, volunteers, community groups and service users, and we will continue to work with partners to help minimise disruption and support those affected wherever possible."

Simon Collyer, founder of the Association of Pension and Benefits Claimants CIC in Colchester, said: "Community 360, in its day, helped steer and train many small charitable organisations in North Essex, and their contribution will be sadly missed."

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