Hidden Surrey Why local giving is needed to strengthen our communities - Dr Helen Bowcock
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Dr Helen Bowcock Hidden Surrey Why local giving is needed to strengthen our communities
1
Foreword Contents
Although Surrey is known to be one of the wealthiest counties in the United Kingdom, with the majority
of its population enjoying a high quality of life, as the title of this revealing report suggests there are, in Acknowledgements 2
fact, many pockets of deprivation within the county. These are not evident from statistical data based on Executive Summary 3
coarser mapping grids but become all too clear when finer grids are used. Furthermore, they frequently
occur within towns and villages which are often associated in the minds eye with prosperity and high 1. Introduction 6
living standards. In some cases they are amongst the most deprived areas in the country. 2. Social Disadvantage in Surrey 9
Happily, Surrey also has numerous voluntary and charitable organisations, some of Professor Patrick J Dowling CBE DL FRS 3. Children and Young People 16
which are highlighted within this report, which are doing invaluable work in addressing retired as Vice-Chancellor of the University
the various needs of Surrey and the wider community. Between them they reach many, of Surrey at the end of June 2005, a post 4. Disability 29
but by no means all, of the people and groups in need of help. However, in many cases he held for 11 years. During that time he
these voluntary groups are encountering increasing difficulties in securing funding due worked closely with the Surrey Community 5. Older People 36
to the reduction in available statutory and other grants. This is compounded by the short and was appointed a Deputy Lieutenant
term nature and increasing bureaucracy of many grant programmes. All of this, of course, of Surrey in 1999. His understanding of 6. Community 41
is further aggravated by the current drastic downturn in the UK’s economy. the needs of the Surrey Community were
greatly strengthened when he supported Some Concluding Comments 44
Dr Helen Bowcock’s report provides an up to-date perspective on social disadvantage his wife Dr Grace Dowling in her role as
within Surrey and examines it in the context of its effects on children, young people, older High Sheriff of Surrey from 2004 to 2005. Appendix 1 Tables of Statistics 46
people and the disabled of our community. The author then makes a compelling case for He was appointed CBE in the Queen’s New
the need to encourage and facilitate local giving by individuals, families, corporate bodies Year’s Honours List in 2001 in recognition
and donors of all kinds to help fund the needs of their local communities. of his work at the interface of Higher
Education and Industry.
It was for this purpose the Surrey Community Foundation was established some three Rensburg Sheppards Investment Management Limited is a wholly owned
years ago with the aim of raising funds from donors and investing them on their behalf Dr Helen Bowcock is a Trustee of The subsidiary of Rensburg Sheppards plc which is quoted on the London Stock Exchange.
through a professional grant managing programme for Surrey communities. It is also Hazelhurst Trust, one of the first funds to The company is the result of the amalgamation of some of the oldest names on the
building a donor subscribed endowment fund which will be there for the benefit of be established with Surrey Community London Stock Exchange and our origins date back over 200 years.
Surrey’s community in perpetuity. Foundation. She is also a member of the
Foundation’s Grants Policy Panel and of The Rensburg Sheppards Group has 11 offices nationwide and around £11 billion of
I am enormously grateful to Dr Bowcock for the considerable time and expertise she has its Personnel Group. She worked for a clients’ assets under management. Our office in Farnham, manages portfolios for
devoted to the research and writing of this report and thank her and all who contributed number of years as Director of Human private individuals, charities and personal pension funds.
to this report most sincerely on behalf of all our trustees, staff, donors and volunteers. Resources for a software company. In 2006
she completed a PhD in Sociology under We like to support local causes and are therefore delighted to be sponsoring the
It is our hope that this report will inspire more of those within our community with the the supervision of Professor Frank Furedi, Surrey Community Foundation who undertake such valuable work in the county.
means to do so to consider contributing to our efforts to improve the quality of people’s author of Paranoid Parenting. Originally
lives throughout Surrey. a graduate of Durham University, she has We look forward to working with the Foundation over the coming years, and wish
also studied Organisational Behaviour and them all the best for the future.
Professor Patrick J Dowling CBE DL FRS is an alumni of The Philanthropy Workshop
Chair, Surrey Community Foundation run by the Institute for Philanthropy. If you think we can be of any help, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Richard Mitton
Senior Investment Director
Author’s note: This report includes a number of brief case studies of the work carried Rensburg Sheppards Investment Management
out by voluntary organisations and community groups within Surrey. Most of them Clockhouse, Dogflud Way
have recieved grants from Surrey Community Foundation. They are intended to give an Farnham, Surrey GU9 7UL
insight into the importance, breadth and range of this work around the county. However,
many more not mentioned here have received grants and many more still are in need of T. 01252 733345 richard.mitton@rensburgsheppards.co.uk
financial support from donors.
Cover image: Jonathan Parsons, Instar (2004), oil on linen, 59 x 59cm. Photograph courtesy of the artist with thanks to Chalk Hill Contemporary ArtHidden Surrey Why local giving is needed to strengthen our communities 2/3
Acknowledgements Executive Summary
Many people have given their time, much valued comments and commitment to the production of this report. Surrey Community Foundation was established in 2005, in one Changing context for funding
Particular thanks are owed to the following: of the last areas of the country to have a foundation of this kind. Average male incomes in Surrey are
33% higher than the national average.
Mike Abbott Surrey Council for Voluntary Youth Services Janet Maines Trustee 40 Degreez It is distinct from the other non-profit and voluntary organisations Infrastructure locally is geared to an
Dr Helen Allan University of Surrey Claire Matthes Haslemere Young Parents Group locally in its objectives of raising funds from private and affluent population with the highest per
Paul Baker Surrey Police Clare Matthias The Hummingbird Trust corporate donors and investing them on their behalves through a capita ownership of vehicles in Britain.
Nigel Biggs Chair Surrey Enterprise Hub Jim McAllister Trustee Surrey Community Foundation Consequently those living in relative
Stephen Blunt Trustee Surrey Community Foundation, Partner Clyde & Co Corita Metelerkamp professional grant management programme. It is also distinct in poverty are all the more excluded from
Matthew Bowcock Chair Community Foundation Network, Michael More-Molyneux DL Loseley Park its objective of establishing a permanent endowment fund for the the norms around them. At the same time,
Vice Chair Surrey Community Foundation Paul Napthine Surrey Community Action benefit of Surrey communities and thus provides a mechanism for local government receives significantly less
James Bristow BeFree Leatherhead Youth Project Kyle Oliver Liquid Connection funding per person for essential services
Jayne Bruguera The Canterbury Care Centre Bruce Patterson GASP the bequest of legacies and other assets. than is the national average and only
Lance Clarke Surrey Association for Visual Impairment Andrew Pearcey Surrey Police around one quarter of what is received
Kathy Curtis University of Surrey Chief Constable Bob Quick Surrey Police The decision to create a Foundation in Surrey was based upon a for each person in Greater Manchester,
John Davey Guildford Borough Council Berry Rance Citizens Advice Waverley for example.
Kevin Delf Surrey Lifelong Learning Partnership Canon Chris Rich Diocese of Guildford thorough analysis of local needs which provided strong statistical
Sarah DeMarcos Haslemere Young Parents Ellie Rickman Sayers Croft Environmental Education Trust evidence of pockets of deprivation right around the county. With diminishing public funds, a greater
Superintendent Nick Dove Surrey Police Sophie Ritson Chase Hospice Care for Children During the last three years, the Foundation has further developed burden is placed upon local voluntary
Dr Grace Dowling former High Sherriff John Sandy JobMatch organisations and community groups to
Professor Patrick Dowling CBE DL Chair Surrey Community Foundation Sian Sangarde-Brown Surrey Lifelong Learning Partnership this knowledge and recognised the importance of updating its deliver essential programmes and services
Diana Drysdale Age Concern Godstone Lavinia Sealy Surrey County Council, profile of Surrey and of identifying emerging needs and funding that may be provided elsewhere in the
Professor Sara Faithful University of Surrey Trustee Surrey Community Foundation shortfalls. This report is the result of a consultation with voluntary country by the state. These organisations
Terry Eckersely Woking YMCA Nick Sealy former High Sherriff, report increasing difficulty in obtaining
Elaine Garfitt Member Surrey Community Foundation Member Surrey Community Foundation organisations and community groups, as well as key individuals grant funding for precisely the reason
Mike Gordon Woking Borough Council Dr Richard Shaw Surrey County Council with a strong commitment to strengthening Surrey’s communities. that, when funds are allocated according
Sarah Goad JP Lord Lieutenant of Surrey Richard Shortman Surrey Scouts It is intended primarily to give an insight into the range and extent to absolute numbers, Surrey seems less
Dr Patricia Greer Surrey County Council Nick Skellett Surrey County Council, deserving than other places.
Peter Hampson CBE Trustee Surrey Community Foundation Trustee Surrey Community Foundation of opportunities locally for private and corporate funding and the
Sue Haworth-Edwards Disability Challengers Chris Stanton Surrey Economic Partnership critical need for increased levels of local giving. The imperative for government agencies
Bishop Christopher Hill Bishop of Guildford, Christine Stevens Surrey County Council to replace grant programmes with
Trustee Surrey Community Foundation Richard Stilgoe OBE DL The Orpheus Foundation contracts places a further burden and
Patrick Hodson Clive Stone Oakleaf Enterprises Surrey’s appearance as a wealthy county is deceptive. Throughout cost upon the voluntary sector and is
Julian Hubble DISCASS Jon Taylor Youth Worker there are tight pockets of deprivation, enclosed within housing making many of the smaller organisations
Jeremy Hunt MP Sarah Teacher Institute for Philanthropy estates or even within a few streets, with high levels of child ineligible for public funds. Yet many of
Phil Hunter Walton Sea Cadets Steve Thomas Sheerwater Maybury Partnership these smaller players are pioneers in their
Wendy Hynes Hasleway Centre Elaine Tisdall Surrey Care Trust poverty, low income, poor mental health and other significant fields and are addressing some of the most
David Hypher DL former High Sherriff Canon David Tomkinson Diocese of Guildford problems. Often they are adjacent to affluent areas that acute needs and problems. Moreover, the
Sir Stephen Lamport Trustee Surrey Community Foundation Bridget Turner Chase Hospice Care for Children camouflage the extent of need, driving down the statistics and preference for funding new projects makes
Dr Salvatore LaSpada Institute for Philanthropy Michael Urban Peaslake Village Fund it difficult for them to fund core costs.
Dr Pat Lambert The Bourne Youth Initiative Sally Varah High Sherriff diverting public funds to areas of more widespread poverty in
John Lavers MBE JP Trustee Surrey Community Foundation Professor Vasso Vydelingum University of Surrey other parts of the country.
Tony Lee Age Concern Surrey Dominic Webb DISCASS
Gordon Lee-Steere Vice Lord Lieutenant of Surrey, Angie Walker Surrey Police
Trustee Surrey Community Foundation Andrew Wates DL Trustee Surrey Community Foundation
Nina Lemon Peer Productions Rick Wates William Wates Foundation, PSDS
Michael Lockwood A Place to Be Youth Group Rev Val Williams Merstham
Wanda Lloyd Eastcourt Trust Jane Woolley Hambledon Village Fund
Anna Lubelska The Children’s Fund Surrey County Council Chris Wyatt Alzheimer’s Society
Iain Lynch Waverley Borough Council Michael Zilka Sayers Croft Environmental Education Trust
Carol McFarlane Opportunities Sandy HillHidden Surrey Why local giving is needed to strengthen our communities Executive Summary 4/5
Social Deprivation Children and Young People Disability Older People Community Concluding comments
Surrey’s dominant cultural identity of While statistics indicate that the average Families with a disabled child experience Surrey has both a slightly higher Britain has been described as ‘the most It is clear that government is neither
affluent commuter towns and a highly number of children living in poverty has great difficulty and charities report a proportion of older people and a higher life centralised state in the developed world.’ able nor willing to provide the resources
educated population conceals not only decreased, at a national level, between critical need to increase respite care. In expectancy than is the national average. Local giving provides a way of reclaiming necessary to address many local needs.
hidden deprivation but also greater 2001 and 2007 from 21% to 18%, the general, the costs of bringing up a disabled The costs of social and residential care are our communities, particularly in a county Donors bring not only essential financial
complexity at a localised level. For example, proportion in Surrey has increased from child are three times higher than those for much higher here than in neighbouring that is being starved of state funds. There but also moral support. Very often, they
within the Sheerwater Maybury area of 9% to 10%. a child without disability and the parents’ counties, reinforcing the importance of is growing interest in establishing funds can respond more flexibly and co-
Woking, one third of the population are opportunity for work is significantly enabling older people to stay living in their to pool private donations from donors who operatively to funding requests by leaders
non-white, almost 40% have very low While young people living here achieve reduced. In Surrey, where the costs of own homes. Voluntary organisations that would like to support their immediate of voluntary and community organisations
literacy and 38 different languages are well above national averages at the living are exceptionally high, this places provide services to people in their homes town or village. This enables people operating under difficult and uncertain
spoken at the local school. age of 11, those who have a Statement a particular strain, notably increasing the and provide opportunities for social and regardless of their financial means to conditions.
of Special Educational Need or receive risk of family breakdown. leisure activity are critical to maintaining become donors and provides a source of
This county houses a relatively high school meals under-achieve against these independence. They report a noticeable permanent endowment for local causes. Governments at local and national levels
number of prisoners, including two averages. Exclusions from school of those The South East has the highest rates of increase in cases of Alzheimers. need to be honest about the limits of what
women’s prisons with the implications this with special needs are twice the national sickness absence in the country, with There is increasing interest in the capacity they are willing and able to do so that in
brings for rehabilitation and the problems average. A recent Ofsted report raised mental and stress related illnesses the of community philanthropy to address Surrey, where we are hard up against those
of poor mental health amongst offenders. deep concerns that statutory services greatest factors. The closure of Brookwood some of our most enduring social limits, we can clearly delineate the role and
It is known to harbour particularly high for children with high levels of need, Hospital in the early eighties transferred problems. This report is intended to reveal scope of local giving. Bureaucratic waste
levels of domestic violence. It has the who do not meet the threshold for child much responsibility for caring for those the extent and range of opportunities and onerous regulation are disincentives
fourth largest population of Travellers protection, are inadequate. with mental health problems to the locally for private and corporate donations. to philanthropy.
and Gypsies within Britain. voluntary sector. Organisations such as Not only is there need to support
There are many voluntary groups and Oakleaf Enterprises are highly effective established professionalised charities We have, within this county, a strong
organisations around the county who are in returning those with mental health but also small, grassroots community tradition of local giving with some
working with young people, to engage problems to employment, but are groups that engender self-reliance and outstanding examples of philanthropy and
them in meaningful activities and to experiencing the closure of important community cohesion. of impressive leadership within voluntary
provide them with structure, training sources of public funding. and community organisations. At a time
and support. They range from the highly of profound economic change, we need
respected Surrey Care Trust with its to build upon this strong foundation to
programmes for those who are not at encourage self-reliance and to enable
mainstream school or are at risk of being those with surplus wealth to make sound
excluded to small volunteer led groups social investments for the good of this
such as the Sea Cadets. fortunate county.
It is these voluntary organisations and
groups that are most effective in delivering
preventative programmes to divert young
people from trouble. Community leaders
express concern that the under-funding
of Police and other public services poses
a risk to this county. Young people who
are allowed to be left behind can become
prey to crime gangs from London and
elsewhere. Those who live in ‘breadline
poverty’ amidst affluence are particularly
vulnerable to predatory criminal activity.Hidden Surrey Why local giving is needed to strengthen our communities Introduction 6/7
1. Introduction
Surrey is a county of contradictions. Almost one quarter of its land is covered by trees making it the One important source of information It is not always apparent what an essential often insufficiently visible or appealing
most densely wooded county in Britain, yet it contains stretches of the M25 that are the busiest for this report has been these voluntary role some of our voluntary organisations to attract the funds that are desperately
organisations within Surrey, from large play and this is particularly so in a needed. For much of the second half of
and most congested roads in Europe. A relatively low proportion of its population are from ethnic charities to small community groups. county like Surrey where the capacity of the twentieth century there has been a
minorities. Only 5% were classified as non-white in the last census in comparison to around 30% for Regardless of their size, they have given government diminishes as a result of strong assumption that it is the duty of
much of London. However, over one third of one of Woking’s electoral wards, Sheerwater Maybury, is a consistent message that raising funds budget reductions. These organisations government to provide infrastructure
has become more difficult and more are, in general, most effective in playing and services where they are most
non-white and the oldest purpose built mosque in the country can be found there. In one area within competitive. Although there is a view a preventative role and thus saving the needed. But there are now numerous
this electoral ward almost two thirds of the population were classified as non-white and thirty eight that this is what voluntary organisations public purse. For example, a pioneering projects in our most deprived areas that
different languages are spoken at the local school. In Surrey, children perform well above national always say, there are clear reasons to literacy project in the most deprived area would not survive without private or
believe them. Large scale grants from the of the county, Maybury and Sheerwater, corporate financial support. Traditionally,
averages at the age of eleven, but those who have Statements of Special Educational Needs under- European Social Fund have become more aims to prevent children who struggle communities have supported local sports
perform against averages. With its proximity to London Surrey has, after the capital, the highest difficult to obtain for Surrey organisations from falling further behind in education. facilities, youth clubs, museums, choirs
proportion of people who have moved from within the UK, standing at 5.94% in 2001.1 The census also which often lose out to other areas in the The lifetime cost to the state if a child fails and so on; with less public funding
South East. The imperative for statutory at school and subsequently veers off on a available, there will be an increasing
showed that, as a county, it had a relatively high proportion who had moved from outside the UK with authorities to cut costs and to replace trajectory of drug-taking, unemployment need for community fund-raising.
the consequences this implies for a constantly changing ethnic and religious mix. grant programmes with contracts to and offending is estimated by the KPMG
outsource services will effectively make Foundation3 to be well over £1 million. The primary purpose of this report is to
Surrey is reputed to be ‘the divorce capital most alarming about these 2007 statistics of well above average wealth. If child public funds inaccessible to smaller It is our voluntary organisations that are highlight the way in which private and
of Europe’ but, according to the last is that they seem to indicate that, in those poverty here has increased over recent organisations. They have neither the taking Surrey’s young people who have corporate giving is needed locally. It is
census, has a relatively high proportion confined areas of Surrey where child years it is likely to increase further. The critical mass to be eligible nor the been excluded from school, re-engaging only in the last four years that statistics
of households comprising married poverty is high, it has increased since data continued reduction in government resources to succeed in the complex them in vocational training and teaching have been gathered at a very local level
couples with dependent children, 20.43% was published in 2001 while the overall funding threatens the survival of voluntary tendering processes. There are concerns them life skills. They are delivering services revealing the extent of deprivation within
in comparison to a national average of percentage for England has declined. organisations that are working to address also that the 2012 Olympics are diverting to the elderly and disabled to enable the county and the way that it is concealed
17.48%.1 And, the county has the lowest There are reasons for this. the root causes of child poverty. And it funds to London. them to remain optimally independent by the wealth that surrounds it. In other
proportion of lone parent households threatens many others who work with in a county where the costs of social care words, affluence makes it harder for those
with 3.93% of all households in 2005 in As a county, Surrey is very badly treated those in need such as the elderly, the Elaine Tisdall, Chief Executive of the are particularly high. They are providing who live in or below ‘breadline poverty’
comparison to around one in ten for much in government funding formulae. It disabled and the homeless. Surrey Care Trust, points out that as the the advisory and advocacy services that not only because disparities in the quality
of London.1 However, a constant theme of contributes around £5.5 billion per annum numbers of deprived people are fewer in strive to prevent family breakdown and of life are so great but also because it
this report is that the averages and higher to the Treasury but does not receive a Our former Chief Constable of Police, Surrey than in other parts of the country, homelessness. And they run programmes diverts resources away from the area
level statistics that determine Surrey’s commensurate return. In fact, only £205 is Bob Quick, describes the county as the voluntary sector is required to provide to divert ex-offenders from crime and to and camouflages local need. If nothing
image of affluence conceal a very different received per person for essential services in ‘the goose that lays the golden egg.’ services that are provided elsewhere rehabilitate them through employment else, it has driven up the price of real
reality at a localised level. The same comparison to a national average of £595 “It is the biggest contributor to The by statutory agencies. And yet, at the and mentoring. The costs and the risks to estate so that there is an acute shortage
county that ranks lowest in the country and £856 for each person in Manchester.2 Exchequer of any area but, like other same time, claims for grant funding are our society are alarming if voluntary and of affordable housing and the high cost
for households headed by a lone parent The high level statistics that show that statutory authorities, Surrey Police is weakened by this same factor that small, community groups cannot survive. of premises places an enormous burden
contains tight pockets of deprivation the earnings of men who live in Surrey under-funded.” He points out that we tight pockets of deprivation appear less on non-profit making organisations. Is
where proportions are high including an are 33% higher than the national average have “pockets of severe deprivation, deserving than areas of more widespread There is a renewed interest in the potential there an obligation then for those who
area near Ewell (Ruxley) with 35.8% and and 23% higher for women work against vulnerability and risk that, in so many poverty affecting larger numbers of for philanthropy to address enduring social have surplus wealth, who enjoy the many
35.7% in one on the edge of Camberley those in need. They seem to provide all the ways, are not being identified effectively. people. The current funding climate problems but Surrey may seem, on the benefits of living in Surrey, to invest in
(St Michaels).1 Surrey ranks lowest too on reason the national government needs Funding is based upon a crude formula places a particularly onerous burden surface, an unlikely place to invest private their local communities? If the answer
the league table for Child Poverty with an to spend elsewhere the taxes that are that is predictive and draws conclusions upon Surrey’s voluntary sector creating wealth in this way. While there is already is ‘yes’ then there are different ways
overall average of 10% in comparison with generated here, in a county where there on population, deprivation, social a disadvantage not only in real numeric a strong precedent within the county for that it can be fulfilled, from the
much of London’s average of over 35%. But is no electoral cost in doing so. It could be groupings, earnings, health indices terms but also in morale. The situation is considerable charitable giving, very often provision of premises as a ‘gift in kind,’
there are numerous pockets around the argued that social exclusion is nowhere etcetera and concludes that the summed up by Elaine Tisdall who says the money goes to high profile causes to the establishment of a permanent
county where the rate of Child Poverty is better demonstrated than in Surrey, population of Surrey is affluent, well that “we are bidding all the time, running outside of the county or overseas. For the endowment fund, to ‘immediate impact’
well over 30% and is as high as 42% in the a county of stark contrasts with tight educated and not in need of a to keep in the same place.” very same reason that social deprivation grants whether large or small.
Park Barn area of Guildford, Westborough, pockets of deprivation, often concealed great deal.” within Surrey is concentrated in tight
and 44% in one area of Redhill.1 What is within housing estates, next to areas pockets, largely hidden from view, it is
1 Data from Office of National Statistics presented by Local Futures Group
2 Information provided by Surrey County Council 3 KPMG Foundation The Long Term Cost of Literacy Difficulties 2006Hidden Surrey Why local giving is needed to strengthen our communities 8/9
2. Social Disadvantage in Surrey
Private and corporate philanthropy We have reached a critical stage in Surrey There is also much more that government At county level, according to many significant measures, Surrey This quotation from a report on the
offers hope for the survival of voluntary where the need for an increased level of could do to ease the burden on our appears to have less deprivation than any other administrative development of a Council for Voluntary
organisations and community groups private and corporate giving is the only voluntary organisations and community Services for Guildford and Waverley gives
although it is unlikely to offer a full way in which much valuable work can groups. In Surrey, with the high costs of region in this country. We rank lowest on the league table for Child an insight into local hardship:
substitute for publicly funded grants. continue. There is a view that we have too real estate, publicly owned premises could Poverty, for example, and for a number of other measures on the
A very important purpose of Surrey many voluntary organisations and that be made available on more favourable Index of Multiple Deprivation including education, employment “The bus service in Guildford and Waverley
Community Foundation is to establish some form of rationalisation is no bad terms than they are currently. Many is not frequent outside of the main towns
endowment funds so that local thing. While there has certainly been a groups are finding the high cost of rent and health. When statistics are gathered from the boroughs and and is costly. Residents of Ockford Ridge in
organisations have permanent sources of proliferation of new charities4 the problem for premises prohibitively high. In some electoral wards that make up this fortunate county the dominant Godalming live at the top of a steep hill.
finance. The uncertainty of funding from is that it is the pioneering work at the cases, they would like to take over the picture that emerges is one of great affluence and little need. Those who have mobility problems, travel
some government agencies means that it hard edges of our society that will suffer. If management of council owned premises with a pushchair or are simply looking to
is often difficult to sustain established and voluntary groups do not have access to the and optimise the asset to bring in further But in recent years – since around 2004 – official statistics have travel back with groceries need to rely on
successful pieces of work. They are subject right social networks or the critical mass to revenue in a way that is not being done become available at a more detailed level for groups of 1500 people buses if they have no access to a car. Bus
to an annual budget cycle which means employ fund-raisers then they are finding at present. Government at national and or so.5 They reveal that right around Surrey, within every borough, drivers will no longer assist mothers to get
that there is no assurance of continuation it very difficult to keep afloat and the effort local levels needs to be honest about the on the bus with their pushchairs apparently
beyond the current financial year. But of fund-raising detracts from the delivery limits of what it is able to do so that, in there are small but distinct pockets of deprivation. for Health and Safety reasons. The buses
one of the most consistent messages of the essential services they provide. So Surrey, where we are clearly up against that do run are expensive for those on
from the leaders of these organisations is this report is a request to those who have those limits we can delineate the role of We have no derelict shipyards or redundant mines to provide the low incomes. For instance, a member of
just how demoralising it has become to the means to consider how they could private giving. This report is not only an SMART (St Marks Active Residents group)
live with this degree of uncertainty and help. The Community Foundation is appeal for increased private investment powerful visual reminders of hardship. The geography of need in Ockford Ridge told us that to take her
how much time is required to complete in a strong position to introduce them to in our communities but an appeal also here in England’s richest county is far less evident. Poverty is both three children to Guildford to go swimming
complex, detailed grant application forms. projects and organisations right around to reclaim those communities and to run distributed and concealed. Very often, it is concentrated within a cost £13 to catch the bus to Guildford,
There is a real need to support the work of the county that would benefit from new them more effectively making the most another few pounds to get from Guildford
voluntary and community groups not only sources of funding. of limited means. Affluence may make it housing estate or even within a few streets. The low rise housing to the Spectrum and £16.60 for them to go
with money but also with the measure of harder for those in need, but those with of, say, the Park Barn estate in Guildford or of Ockford Ridge in swimming making a prohibitive total cost
respect and belief in what they do. surplus wealth who choose to support Godalming harbours high levels of need but it is not conspicuous. of approximately £35 for one outing.”
their local communities offer a solution to
the problem rather than contributing to it. As many contributors to this report have emphasised, it is surely
harder in qualitative terms to be poor amidst wealth. But there
are some very real and tangible consequences to being deprived
in a county where the average male income is 33% higher than the
national average.6 For example infrastructure locally is designed to
serve a population that relies far less upon public transport than
is the case for areas of more widespread poverty. Surrey residents
have the highest per capita ownership of cars in the country.7 Many
of this county’s most deprived places have very little in the way of
shops, pubs or leisure facilities. Without adequate transport, the
local sports centre is inaccessible to those on low incomes. Many
can neither afford to get there nor to participate even if they could.
5 These areas are called ‘Super Output Areas’ (SOAs), described by the Office of National Statistics as ‘a new geography for the collection and publication of small area statistics.’
They are better for statistical comparison than electoral wards as they are much more consistent in size. Most wards in Surrey are made up of between 3 and 5 SOAs
6 State of the County 2007 Surrey County Council
4 The National Council for Voluntary Organisations estimates that the number of general charities in the UK increased from 120,000 in 2004/5 to 164,195 in 2006 7 The average number of cars or vans per Surrey household is 1.99 while the national average is 1.09. Office of National StatisticsHidden Surrey Why local giving is needed to strengthen our communities Social Disadvantage in Surrey 10/11
Where deprivation is closely juxtaposed Statistics and indices such as the Index of Surrey Care Trust is a substantial Surrey There is therefore considerable knowledge
7AVERLEY !
.!4)/.!,
with affluence as it is in Surrey, statistics Multiple Deprivation mean that it is now wide charity that has earned great of where deprivation exists and of
!6%2!'%
can work against those in need. For example, 7AVERLEY " straightforward to map those areas in respect for its work in transforming the voluntary and community activity that
data gathered from a whole ward such as the county where people are living on low lives of people in difficulty who may be seeks to address the problems for
Farnham Upper Hale would not reveal the 7AVERLEY ! incomes and experiencing other related hampered by precarious income and those people who are living in relative
extent of deprivation within it. It would problems such as higher levels of crime, low qualifications. With its emphasis poverty. These organisations range from
show, at ward level, a score on the Index of Index of Multiple Deprivation: average of SOA scores (2007) child poverty, poor transport and so on. upon education, learning and developing substantial charities such as Surrey
Multiple Deprivation of 11.06, well below This chart shows the levels of Multiple Deprivation in one of Farnham’s electoral wards There are a number of agencies that, in the skills the Trust delivers a number of Care Trust through to small community
the national average score of 21.57. What demonstrating the way that areas of high deprivation are adjacent to areas that are much course of their work, need to identify and programmes throughout the county. groups such as Opportunities at Sandy
this aggregation does not show is that more affluent. target these locations. We are particularly They include STEPS, which provides Hill, described overleaf. The real challenge
while in one area of the ward deprivation well served in Surrey by our Police force mentoring and support to young people is to identify new sources of funding
is minimal with a score of 1.82, in another, with its network of Neighbourhood Police who are dismissed as no-hopers and are so that many valuable projects and
across a main road, it is 26.09. While in officers who work closely with community at risk of being excluded. In addition, the organisations can survive. But, even with
other areas of the country whole wards groups to build greater confidence and programme provides alternative education these potential sources, there is also the
and suburbs can be characterised for their strengthen communities. Surrey County from learning centres in Staines and challenge of making smaller amounts
poverty, it is not so in Surrey where few Council is working continuously to map Woking to those who have been excluded. work more effectively and of ensuring
contain more than one deprived zone. Areas in Surrey with the highest levels of Multiple Deprivation the areas of greatest need. Several years For offenders who have been sentenced to that the grants are well invested and
ago the Council designated ten ‘Self- carry out community work rather than serve the purpose intended. The unique
reliance’ areas where funding has been going to prison the Trust offers role of the Community Foundation is to
3TANWELL .ORTH !SHFORD .ORTH
!SHFORD 3TANWELL 3OUTH
(EATHROW
!SHFORD %AST
given to support community activities. employment and the opportunity to encourage donors to invest locally whilst
3TAINES This was intended to build cohesion develop new skills on its ‘Swingbridge also ensuring that the causes they support
3PELTHORNE and develop the capacity for bringing in Community Boats.’ The staff at Surrey Care accord with donors’ values and represent
3UNBURY #OMMON
7ALTON !MBLESIDE further sources of funding. Surrey Care Trust have a keen appreciation of the most a sound social investment. It is also the
2UNNYMEDE Trust delivers programmes throughout acute needs locally through their Crisis Foundation’s role to strive to identify the
#HERSTEY 3T !NNES #OURT
!DDLESTONE
%SHER the county to address problems of Grants programme which, on a weekly most pioneering work by groups that may
2UXLEY
3URREY (EATH %LMBRIDGE social exclusion and deprivation. Surrey basis, receives desperate requests for basic not be the most accomplished fund-raisers
%PSOM %WELL
#AMBERLEY %PSOM Community Action and the network items such as a school uniform or a second but offer solutions to some of our most
'OLDSWORTH %AST
7OKING of councils for voluntary services have hand refrigerator. intractable problems.
-AYBURY 3HEERWATER
7OKING a detailed insight into local needs and
voluntary capacity. And with its emphasis The case study overleaf of the work
2EIGATE "ANSTEAD /XTED on education and training, The Lifelong in Sandy Hill on the edge of Farnham
7ESTBOROUGH
'UILDFORD
-ERSTHAM Learning Partnership supports community demonstrates the value and the potential
2EIGATE
2EDHILL 7EST projects throughout the county that aim of voluntary and community activity.
3ANDY (ILL 'UILDFORD $ORKING
4ANDRIDGE to overcome barriers to learning.
-OLE 6ALLEY
/CKFORD 2IDGE 'ODALMING (ORLEY 7EST
7AVERLEY 'ATWICK
England average 21.57
The Index of Multiple Deprivation 2007 combines a number of indicators, chosen to cover a range of economic, social and housing
issues, into a single deprivation score for each small area in England. This allows each area to be ranked relative to one another
according to their level of deprivation. The chosen indicators are income, employment, health deprivation and disability, education,
skills and training, barriers to housing and services, crime and living environment.
See Appendix 1 Tables of Statistics, page 46Hidden Surrey Why local giving is needed to strengthen our communities Social Disadvantage in Surrey 12/13
Opportunities, Sandy Hill
The housing estate of Sandy Hill on the edge of Farnham ranks as one of the areas of highest Such is the progress of the Opportunities Offenders
deprivation in Surrey. Ten years ago there were areas which many people were not happy to visit. Project that the group are endeavouring to In this section on Deprivation it seems Two of Surrey’s four prisons are for women,
adopt a business approach to use their IT appropriate to include the question although they make up only 5% of the
The housing office located in ‘The Bungalow’ on the estate was not seen in any way as a community and Life Skills to provide services to other of offenders and ex-offenders and the prison population nationally. The same
resource but was treated with suspicion by residents who only entered it if they really had to. people on the estate and beyond. Another work that is being done locally. We have report on mental health in prisons states
There was little sense of community cohesion and relatively high levels of crime and vandalism. important factor in the group’s success is four prisons in Surrey and two of these that women ‘serve shorter sentences but
the physical location of The Bungalow. It are for female offenders. Nationally the during that time their children may be
Many residents were trapped, unable to obtain employment through lack of skills, low literacy and is at the entrance of the estate right next prison population is at its highest ever taken into care and they may lose both
numeracy and thus unable to support their own children to learn and progress at school. A high to the primary school. Members can come with 82,000 prisoners in England and their job and their home. There are relatively
proportion are single parents who had not completed their education. In 2002 the estate’s straight in after dropping their children at Wales. Severe overcrowding means that, few women’s prisons so family visits often
school and consider it now as a resource increasingly, offenders are being sent involve a long journey and may be difficult
warden took the initiative to establish IT training courses at The Bungalow and a training that belongs to them and a place that is some distance from their homes and to arrange for any children involved.
consultant, Carol McFarlane, was appointed. safe. As Carol observes ‘the heart is coming this, in turn, is creating problems for their All these factors increase the likelihood
back into the village.’ They are raising rehabilitation. At present, the re-offending of mental stress.’ The needs of female
Over the last six years Carol has were extremely isolated before they Carol appreciated very early on that by money by making and selling cakes at the rate is at 65% for adults and as high as offenders are of particular interest in this
extended the training programme into joined the group and were having to face bringing people together to learn she school to fund some trips over the summer 85% for 18-20 year olds.8 There are some report given the relatively high proportion
a range of other areas and has called it considerable difficulty on their own. One could help them to gain in confidence and and a visit to the pantomime. Although pioneering schemes within Surrey with of them who are imprisoned locally. The
‘Opportunities.’ In addition to IT classes, member said “Without being here I would trust and thus to share their experiences a summer holiday is beyond the reach of the primary purpose of reducing the report goes on to say that ‘Of all groups,
tuition in numeracy, literacy and life skills be a recluse” and another commented that and to help each other. She has developed members, they look forward to sharing re-offending rate and of diverting ex- women in prison have the highest levels of
including nutrition, cooking, budgeting “If we didn’t have this place we would be her own warm relationships with the the experience of taking their children on offenders into employment and training. emotional and psychological distress, often
and parenting is provided. IT classes are sitting on our own at home.” And another, members and provides them with support. outings. Most would not have considered According to a recent report by The related to past abuse and exacerbated by
provided by Carol, who is supported by with three young children, said that “at 26 The students are encouraged to develop doing this on their own. Policy Exchange ‘the biggest drivers of distance from home and children.’
other tutors. The weekly Yoga classes, I thought that life was finished. I needed to their skills and to aim higher. It was reoffending – lack of employment, suitable
are extremely popular, and these are see other people.’’ recognised at the start that some of During its existence Opportunities has accommodation and access to healthcare
backed by a counsellor who teaches stress the students would not be sufficiently received financial support from Surrey – need to be carefully considered in an
management. Citizens Advice Waverley A mother who had been relocated from confident to attend courses in Farnham County Council and from the Learning offender’s resettlement plan.’ 9
provide an outreach service, which has a different part of the country because or elsewhere and that, because most Skills Council. County Council funding
been very well received by residents, as of domestic violence commented that, experience multiple problems, their has come to an end but a grant from
many find it difficult to make the journey as a result of finding the group, she felt attendance may be erratic at times. The Hazelhurst Trust via the Community
into town and to enter an office building, that her children ‘can be kids again.’ They Technical colleges require a minimum of Foundation is ensuring that it continues.
particularly with small children. Carol had witnessed the violence and, arriving ten attendees before they will deliver a There is much more work to be done
encourages the members of Opportunities in a new place with no social network course to an external location and this within this Project. New members are
to obtain formal qualifications and some or support, they were confined to their would not have worked in the context coming along, further classes could be
have achieved NVQ Level 1 in IT and others house. She ventured into The Bungalow to of The Bungalow. It was important also provided and the social enterprise needs
have gone on to Level 2. Another student is begin to learn IT and found that it offered to provide childminding on site so that to develop further. Carol would like to
taking up a place to study at Merrist Wood much more than technical training. Her members knew that their pre-school age extend services to people over the age
College this academic year. children feel safe with the other parents children would be safe so that they could of 50 who may also be isolated and who
in the group and she has found friendship concentrate on learning. could bring skills and knowledge such as
Opportunities has come to be much and the motivation to continue her gardening. She has also identified the need
more than an educational programme. education. She is also gaining confidence to replicate this model in other locations
A strong sense of community has in her own parenting skills as this had that are experiencing the same sort of
developed amongst members who provide been undermined by an abusive former problems and do not have anything
each other with much mutual support and husband and by her isolation. like Opportunities.
friendship. Most are single parents who
8 Figures provided by the St Giles Trust
9 Policy Exchange, Out of Sight Out of Mind, 2008Hidden Surrey Why local giving is needed to strengthen our communities Social Disadvantage in Surrey 14/15
Jobmatch Conclusion
During his time as High Sherriff of Surrey, Adrian White carried out a number of prison visits and, There are some valuable schemes run This chapter has touched on certain issues that may be of
consequently, identified an acute need to provide employment opportunities for ex-offenders. He locally by voluntary organisations to particular interest to some donors such as the rehabilitation of
prepare offenders for their release and
engaged the commitment of John Sandy, former Director and Prison Governor, to help him establish rehabilitation into society. At present an ex-offenders. It has also drawn attention to the areas of greatest
Jobmatch. Ruth Coltofeanu, recently retired senior Probation Officer, joined as the JobMatch Project outreach worker from the St Giles Trust, deprivation within the county and has provided examples of
Co-ordinator working with the Prison Service, Probation and Police Services and finding potential a London based charity, is working with communities that are working to address the problems they face.
some of the women at Send Prison. This is
employers. The purpose of this organisation is to persuade employers to take on ex-offenders and part of a pioneering and highly regarded The same needs that are described in Sandy Hill are present right
to match those being released from prison to the jobs made available to them. As indicated, the scheme to provide mentoring, advocacy around the county in other pockets of deprivation. Most often,
reconviction rate of adults who leave prison is 65% and is 85% for young offenders. The rationale for and job-brokering to offenders to change people know the solutions to their own problems but may lack the
their beliefs and their lives. In 2001 the
Jobmatch is that, if those leaving prison are offered accommodation, employment and thus money Coldingley Crime Diversion Scheme means and the resources to address them. The effectiveness of the
they are far less likely to reoffend. This is based upon sound data from other comparable schemes was established. This enables prisoners work at Sandy Hill relies upon the engagement and commitment
which have seen reconviction cut by up to 80%. One such scheme works with people being released themselves to develop new skills and gain from people within the community to work together. In this case,
qualifications by working with young
from Reading prison. Another project called SOS is operated by the St Giles Trust in London and people at high risk of offending. But it also a relatively small amount of money is being made to go a long
specifically targets gang members whilst they are still in prison. diverts these young people away from way. But without a grant from a private donor this work may well
crime into constructive activities. The need have come to an end, demonstrating the fragility of many of these
Jobmatch works with offenders to help Between March 2007 and 2008 For example, a local branch of Surrey Police was identified to replicate this scheme
them to build their lives in Surrey although 38 people were interviewed for potential found and funded accommodation for one in Send prison where, in a female only projects and the critical need for an increased level of giving to
their time in prison may have been spent employment and, of those, 20 were person for several weeks to enable him to environment, the issues of prostitution support them.
elsewhere in the country. Due to severe placed in jobs and are still employed. take up a job when the accommodation and drug trafficking can be addressed with
over-crowding, offenders who originate The remainder were either considered that he had been allocated was no longer young women who are either at high risk
from the county are often sent some unready for employment or decided available. or are already offending.
distance away. The founding members of against proceeding. Those who
the Jobmatch team work closely with the succeeded in taking jobs are working in Jobmatch has reached an important stage
Probation Service so that they can begin to a range of different fields that include in its development as an organisation. The
establish a dialogue with offenders before catering, gardening, construction, road successful placement of 20 ex-offenders
they are released. They are interviewed maintenance, plumbing, hospitality, demonstrates its effectiveness and its
to determine whether they have made floristry and mechanics. Send Prison has great potential in reducing crime. So far,
a genuine effort to use their time inside a good gym where one woman was able it has minimised costs by relying heavily
to change their attitude and must to train to a high standard and become a upon the dedication of its founding
indicate that they are keen to work. This fitness instructor on her release. Clearly members who have voluntarily given much
is particularly challenging as, very often, the success of this scheme relies not only time to get it started. It was instigated
they have a poor work record and those upon the expertise within Jobmatch but by Adrian White who has provided its
who are most at risk of re-offending are also upon the willingness of the wider funding to date and has provided support
targeted including those categorised as community to support the scheme. The and office accommodation. However, it
‘Persistent and Prolific Offenders.’ If they importance of those employers who agree will soon need to secure further funding
are considered eligible for work they are to provide job opportunities is paramount. to become sustainable and to find its own
matched to a job and are provided with However one of the major obstacles to the premises. It will also require continuing
mentoring once their employment has successful rehabilitation of ex-offenders community support to extend its bank of
begun. It is important not only that the ex- is the acute shortage of accommodation, employers and to engage further volunteer
offender has someone to call upon when a particular problem in Surrey because of mentors. JobMatch is now preparing to
they need to but also that the employer the high costs of real estate. The support of obtain charitable status in its own right.
has a point of contact within Jobmatch to the local police force is also an important
discuss any problems that may arise. factor in the success of this scheme.Hidden Surrey Why local giving is needed to strengthen our communities Children and Young People 16/17
3. Children and Young People
There are approximately one quarter of a million young people under the age of 20 living in this experiencing increasing complexity and Costs and risks of child poverty However, a closer look at statistics at a
county and they make up almost one quarter of the county’s population. Surrey is, in general, a good volume in the cases they take on, the Child poverty is defined as ‘the number of detailed level reveals a more disturbing
overall context in which they are required children living in households with less than picture for Surrey. Although, at a national
place to bring up children. Many families move here out of London for a higher quality of life, more to operate is highly problematic. Funding 60% of median income, both before and level, the number of children living in
space, access to the countryside, good sports facilities and excellent schools. Surrey school children from statutory sources is uncertain and after housing costs are taken into account.’ income deprived households has declined
perform above national averages in educational league tables and 21% of them are educated privately has, in some cases been reduced or been It is the statistics on child poverty that best between 2001 and 2007, from 21% to 18%,
withdrawn; at the same time, there is highlight the deceptiveness of Surrey’s there has been a slight increase within
at secondary level in comparison to a national average of 7%. We are considered to have one of the increased competition to grant-making image of affluence and the distorting this county during that time from 9% to
best youth choirs, orchestras and jazz bands in the country and overall musical, sporting and academic organisations. A further difficulty for them effect of high average household income. 10%. Areas such as Greater Merseyside
achievements from this county are highly commendable and must surely be maintained. However, is the cost of compliance with regulations Out of the 47 sub regions of England or Tyne and Wear have seen their rates of
for child protection. Surrey ranks 47th with a score of 0.1 for Child Poverty decline during this period
in keeping with the overall picture of social deprivation locally, there are very stark contrasts in the child poverty. This means that overall an by several percentage points. In 2001,
circumstances and in the prospects for young people who are growing up here. estimated 10% of children live in income there were fifteen Super Output Areas
deprived households in comparison to 38% (SOAs) within Surrey with Child Poverty
Guildford offers two of the top performing the 34 shire counties at 19%.’ ‘A sample of children and young people who have a in East London which ranks highest of all at over 30%. By 2007 this number had
independent grammar schools in the primary school advertisements showed high level of need but who do not meet sub regions. Surrey is separated in these increased to thirty four SOAs with over
country. Yet, a stone’s throw away, is a that 50% had no applicants, 30% had one thresholds for child protection.” 12 stakes by some margin from other areas, 30%, while ninety three SOAs within the
school described as being hampered applicant and only 20% had more than one with the regions next lowest on this index county are shown to have above average
by ‘a legacy of under-achievement’ 10 in applicant.’ 11 This difficulty has a significant This review raises real concerns about the scoring 12% and the average for England Child Poverty. In one area of Redhill the
which almost one third of pupils have a impact not just upon educational circumstances of young people who are as a whole at 18%. proportion is as high as 44% and is 42% in
Statement of Educational Needs. In both standards but also upon participation in experiencing difficulties particularly those one area of Guildford. And, as indicated,
Mathematics and English, 11 year olds in precisely the subjects that may engage below the threshold for child protection. often these areas of poverty are very close
Surrey achieve results well above national and motivate children who struggle under It does commend certain voluntary to areas of the least deprivation in the
averages. Yet, 11 year olds with a statement the formal curriculum. Surrey’s Joint Area organisations such as White Lodge and Areas in Surrey with the highest levels of Child Poverty country. The ward of St Michaels in the
of Special Educational Needs and those Review published, in July 2008, confirms Mencap for their effectiveness in providing borough of Surrey Heath, for example, has
!SHFORD %AST
who are eligible for free school meals that those young people with highest essential services. It also confirms that one SOA with a score for child poverty of
3TANWELL .ORTH
under-perform against national averages.11 levels of need are effectively excluded some of them are picking up essential !SHFORD3TANWELL 3OUTH
(EATHROW 29%, another 12% and the third 3%.
It is beyond the scope of this report to from activities that are the norm in an work that cannot be fulfilled by statutory %NGLEFIELD 'REEN 7EST
3TAINES
explore the much wider national issue of affluent area. It finds that in Surrey ‘there organisations and it highlights the 3PELTHORNE
certain schools having a disproportionate is a massive reliance on car ownership difficulties that they are experiencing 7ALTON !MBLESIDE
number of pupils who under-perform. But with many young people finding it difficult in carrying out this work: 2UNNYMEDE
!DDLESTONE "OURNESIDE #OURT
it is within its scope to draw attention to to access leisure, sporting and cultural !DDLESTONE
%SHER
2UXLEY
their existence within this county and the opportunities, in part due to the relatively “Voluntary and community sector 3URREY (EATH %LMBRIDGE %PSOM %WELL
reasons why here it may be particularly high cost of public transport.’ But the agencies in Surrey report an increase in 3T -ICHAELS
#AMBERLEY
%PSOM -AYBURY 3HEERWATER
difficult for them to reverse their fortunes. Review also finds that the most vulnerable the complexity of cases they are being 'OLDSWORTH %AST 7OKING
/LD $EAN
An important purpose of this report is young people are not being well served by asked to support and voice a high level of 7OKING
also to highlight those voluntary and statutory services. In its main findings it dissatisfaction with the commissioning
community activities that are effective in concludes that: and contracting processes and a lack of 2EIGATE "ANSTEAD /XTED
improving the life chances of young people consultation by the partnership with 7ORPLESDON
'UILDFORD 2EDHILL 7EST
2EIGATE
and to identify areas of unmet need. “The contribution of local services to community groups regarding the range !SH 7HARF
3ANDY (ILL 'UILDFORD $ORKING
improving outcomes for children and young and type of provision required.” 4ANDRIDGE
Schools with poor academic performance people at risk, or requiring safeguarding,
&ARNHAM #ASTLE
have difficulty in recruiting teachers. But is inadequate. A too limited range of Support for those voluntary organisations -OLE 6ALLEY
'ODALMING
in Surrey the high cost of real estate is preventative services is failing to close the striving to address the needs of the most
compounding the problem of attracting gap between the outcomes of most children vulnerable and disadvantaged young
7AVERLEY 'ATWICK
and retaining good staff. According to the and young people in Surrey and those people within the county is of paramount
County Council’s recent audit, ‘Surrey has who are the most vulnerable. There is an importance. Interviews conducted for this
the highest turnover of teaching staff of inadequate range of services for those report confirm that while they are England average 0.18
10 Christ’s College Guildford Inspection Report Ofsted 2007
11 State of the County 2007 Surrey County Council
12 Ofsted Joint Area Review Surrey Children’s Services Authority Area July 2008 See Appendix 1 Tables of Statistics, page 47You can also read
