A vulnerable people’s support charity has announced its closure after 40 years following a “sustained period of significant financial pressure”.
Kent-based Compaid provides accessible community transport and digital skills training for older, disabled and socially disadvantaged people.
The charity said its services would cease by 17 December after a “perfect storm” of rising costs, the wider economic downturn and broader global economic pressures, alongside increasing pressure on the financial viability of its services.
Compaid recorded an income of £1.6m, costs of £1.7m and had 59 employees according to its latest accounts, for the year to the end of March 2025.
Michelle Ford, chief executive of Compaid, said the closure was an “incredibly sad decision” for everyone connected with the charity.
“For 40 years, the charity has been part of people’s lives across Kent, and I know just how much it means to our clients, families, volunteers and staff,” Ford said.
“Our focus now is on managing the closure with care and respect.
“We have time between now and December to support the people who use our services and, wherever we can, help them prepare for what comes next.”
Compaid said it was communicating with staff, service users, clients and funders about its closure.
“Services will continue during the transition period, with individual services communicating directly with the people who use them about their final operating dates,” the charity said.
“Compaid will work with clients and families over the coming months to help them understand what alternative services and support may be available.”
The charity has been contacted for latest details on staffing numbers.