The number of charities shutting down has over taken the number being newly established in Argyll, new statistics show.
Despite 22 new charities opening in 2025, 27 closed for good, according to the Scottish Charities Register.
Among these charities were the mental health charity Argyll Wellbeing Hub, who shut their doors for the final time on December 20 2025.
The third sector shrinking is a sign of the growing pressure of the cost of living crisis, according to charity insurer Ansvar, as the public’s ability to help out of pocket is stretched by growing daily costs.
Removal from the register can alsop include mergers or charities completing their purpose, but Ansvar says the figures highlight the ongoing pressures within the voluntary sector.
This local picture mirrors UK trends. The Status of UK Fundraising 2025 report found that 54 per cent of UK charities saw their fundraising income remain static or fall over the past year, with a substantial majority attributing this to wider economic conditions.
While income is not universally declining, many organisations are having to work harder to maintain stability.
Through a local lens, volunteering shortages have struck many charities in the area, which limits charities fundraising capabilities even further.
22 per cent of Argyll residents rely on charity services regularly according to the Charities Aid Foundation, a figure which shows the stark reality of financial hardship in recent times.
Why not try these links to see what our West Coast AI can tell you.
(Please note this is an experimental service)
Yes! I would like to be sent emails from West Coast Today
I understand that my personal information will not be shared with any third parties, and will only be used to provide me with useful targeted articles as indicated.
I'm also aware that I can un-subscribe at any point either from each email notification or on My Account screen.