A CHARITY that covers East Hampshire from offices in Petersfield has agreed a merger in an effort to save money while offering the same services.
From April next year, Community First of Tilmore Road is to merge with Community Action Fareham; both supply similar services to the community and volunteering fields.
Community First spokesman Janet Strangeway said: “They have successfully served the community development needs and provided community services in their respective areas for many years.
“Recently, they have been considering how they might work in closer collaboration to save money whilst continuing to invest in frontline community services and support to improve the reach and impact of the voluntary sector.”
The Petersfield offices, which cover East Hampshire, will remain open to offer the same services as now, the spokesman added.
These include the Employee Volunteering scheme.
Janet said: “Employee Volunteering is when company employees offer their time and expertise for the benefit of local voluntary and community groups during work time, all with the support of their employer.
“Volunteering is promoted, encouraged and recognised by the company.”
The organisations agreed a merger was the best way forward after all the necessary checks and research work was carried out.
The new charity will maintain close links with local groups and be responsive to their needs, said the spokesman.
And both will continue to ensure that new funding opportunities are pursued to the benefit of local communities.
Both charities help voluntary and community groups to deliver greater impact in their communities by using local volunteers.
They also provide advice and support with fundraising and delivering specialist training to the charity sector.
And each group offers critical community services, including transport for older and disabled people, shop-mobility schemes, and support for vulnerable adults and young people.