Issue: 75 | December 2024

As we write this introduction, light snow is drifting down outside. Winter is coming. And across the sectors we serve, there are chill winds blowing. Our work at CT is not about politics, and there is a range of reasons why hard times are upon us, some global, some nearer to home. Growing poverty and deprivation of the most vulnerable people in society will undoubtedly be with us for some time. And the pressures on the organisations and services that are there to meet their needs won’t be relieved any time soon.

On the bright side, we have a government speaking of ambitious targets for production of new homes, with social housing as a priority. The path to delivery may not be clear, but the intention has been stated and is welcome. Social care seems to be back on the agenda, and economic growth a major policy driver. Spring and summer may be some way off, but we can only hope that winter won’t be too long.

Meanwhile, we all need to press on, delivering on our social purposes, holding fast to the vision. As Campbell Tickell celebrates turning 25, this issue of CT Brief is about just that – improving how we can do business, recruiting top talent, being more aware of risks such as fraud, gaining the real business benefits from EDI, better financial planning, and so much more besides. Incremental steps maybe, given how much there is to do. But we need to believe that better times are on their way, and that we are doing all we can to bring them forward for a more equal, healthier and better housed society.

Season’s greetings and here’s to a bright and positive 2025!