Many people are struggling. This means that smaller and local charities received nearly 20% less in contributions last year - in addition to the rising costs we are all facing.

Worse still, councils across the country are facing a financial meltdown. They have been forced to drastically cut their support to charities. Once again, it's the smaller and local charities that are being hit the hardest.

Without support, many local and smaller charities may not survive. Just when more people need help - perhaps even for the first time - there may be no one left to turn to.