High Life Highland praised over steps to stabilise its finances
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The chairman of Highland Council’s recovery board, Councillor Alasdair Christie, has welcomed the steps being taken by High Life Highland (HLH) to stabilise and improve its financial position.
HLH chief executive Steve Walsh presented a report to the board this week in which he outlined the charity’s road to financial recovery after the Covid-19 outbreak.
In March, its projected loss of income indicated a year-end deficit in the region of £11.4 million. However, Mr Walsh explained that through extensive mitigation measures this figure had been cut to a "reasonable worst-case scenario" of £1.55 million.
Speaking after the meeting, Councillor Christie said: “High Life Highland’s report laid out the challenges it has faced and all the work that has gone into improving its financial situation and putting it on a stronger footing going forward. It also focused on the strong partnership working that has taken place between the council and the charity during the pandemic to help and support those most in need in communities across the Highlands.
“I think it is a reflection of the astute management and commitment of staff at High Life Highland that their financial outlook has improved to such an extent.
"I would also like to praise all the creative hard work that has allowed the services they deliver to support the most vulnerable in our communities – youth work, adult learning and music tuition, along with support for the council-run community hubs – to continue throughout the pandemic. This close collaboration and partnership working with colleagues in the council and other partners shows the huge effort taken to work together.
“We wish them every success with their bounceback campaign.”
