CLIC Sargent's proposed restructure could see a further 39 roles made redundant, meaning its workforce is likely to shrink by 15%.
In July the charity told staff that it would need to carry out an organisational restructure and made 38 roles redundant, but it will now make further changes.
The proposals under consultation would see a reduction in current staffing levels of 7%. Together with the redundancies announced in July, this equates to a 15% reduction in staffing levels.
Rachel Kirby-Rider, chief executive, said: “CLIC Sargent is currently facing the biggest challenge in its history. The Covid-19 outbreak has had a devastating impact across the charity sector, and will continue to have a long-term impact on charities’ ability to raise money and provide services.”
CLIC Sargent is anticipating a financial shortfall of £9m this year. The charity needed to raise around £28m.
Kirby-Rider said “this is a devastating blow” adding: “It is clear that the fundraising impact of Covid-19 is set to continue, and we cannot afford to think short term”.
In July the charity launched a programme in direct reaction to the immediate impact of the outbreak on its fundraising and trading arms.
“We need to make significant changes to the way we operate in order to protect our frontline services and ensure that we are still here for the young people, children and families that need us now and into the future.
“It is because of this that yesterday myself and my leadership team began this further change consultation with our teams, as we look to ensure that the organisation continues to maximise support to young cancer patients on a lower income,” Kirby-Rider added.
The charity had already announced four charity shops are closing permanently, and 12 will remain closed until next year.
'The sad reality is that this change cannot be avoided'
Kirby-Rider said: “Every single member of staff at CLIC Sargent is dedicated to making sure children and young people with cancer and their families get the support they need. Which is why it is very difficult to lose people who have worked so hard and shown such team spirit - especially over the past few challenging months. But the sad reality is that this change cannot be avoided.
“If we want CLIC Sargent to still be here in the future then we will need to change our ways of working, refine our focus on the key support we provide, and put ourselves in the best position to seek out opportunities to grow back stronger than ever.
“This been a difficult time for everyone at CLIC Sargent. But we know that cancer is not stopping for Covid-19. As lockdown eases and we settle into our ‘new normal’, for those children, young people and parents facing the terrifying reality of cancer diagnosis and treatment, this pandemic is one more huge obstacle for them on an already incredibly difficult path. It is our responsibility as a charity to change so that we can ensure we are still here for them all.
“September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month (CCAM), and although we are having to make these difficult decisions during this time, we are determined to make sure that children and young people with cancer and their families aren’t forgotten and that their voices are heard.”
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