Central Cheshire Buddy Scheme announces closure amid funding struggles
Charity to continue events until December with final club meeting set for Christmas party
Central Cheshire Buddy Scheme has announced that it will close in December 2026, citing increasingly difficult funding conditions and rising operational costs.
The charity, which has supported hundreds of children for over 22 years, has faced challenges in securing financial resources amidst heightened competition among charitable organisations and private donors.
Cheshire East's decision to redirect funds to a single source provider, coupled with the cost of living crisis, has impacted the charity.
Despite the forthcoming closure, Buddies clubs will continue as normal for the rest of the year, with the final event being a Christmas party on 19th December 2026.
Reflecting on their journey, the Buddies team expressed profound regret at closing their doors and extended warm wishes to all the children and families they have supported.
They emphasised that the success of numerous activities, outings, and residential trips was only made possible through the community's unwavering support.