Listen to Lesslie being interviewed by BBC DriveTime regarding the funding crisis.

I have worked for over 50 years in the care sector. I can confidently say I have never experienced times as difficult as these.

To state the blindingly obvious: life is tough for all of us at times. However, for most, it is not as tough as it can be for those living with long-term conditions, disabilities, or any other reason which brings them to seek support from charities.

The longstanding funding crisis in the third sector is well known but has yet to be properly addressed.

The need for funding vastly outweighs availability, while demand for the services we provide is rising at a phenomenal rate.

Amid this funding crisis, the Chancellor’s rise in employer’s National Insurance contributions is the proverbial straw that breaks the camel’s back. It leaves us with not one centimetre of financial headroom. It is forcing charities like ours to shut down life-saving initiatives.

It is with sadness that we have had to close one of our support groups as funding has come to an end. With 20 members, the group met twice a month to host social events, provide peer support, and help people manage their condition better.

It also reached rural communities in Aberdeenshire, with some travelling up to two hours to attend. Feedback was overwhelming: the group combated social isolation and fostered meaningful relationships.

So, what now?

There is no doubt difficult decisions need to be made. But why is it always at the cost of vulnerable individuals — the easy target?

I would like to know: what revenue will the rise in employer’s NI generate versus the additional pressure on the NHS when, not if, numerous charities across the country fold?

I suppose the other question is: does anyone really care?

We should care.

Whilst not the only contributing factor to the crisis facing charities, the hike in employer’s NI is a significant one. I believe this decision will have a devastating effect on the sector — and more importantly, on those we represent and support.

The Labour titan Aneurin Bevan said:

“I am not going to spend my life in Parliament balancing the books on the back of the poor.”

He was right — and nor should we do so on the backs of the vulnerable, the disabled, the elderly, and all those who rely on the very organisations now being squeezed to the limit.

At some point, all of us will come into contact with social care or charities — in a lifetime that, evidence tells us, is getting longer. We must ensure these essential services and organisations are still there when we need them.

I implore the Chancellor to review this decision — and I ask you to join me in calling for change.