It has been a challenging six months as we have had to operate in an ever-changing environment in what has become known as our ‘new normal.’ Challenges have included staff shortages, outlet closures due to health and safety concerns, crime, increased operating costs and wages, the implementation of new operating systems and pressure on retail sales.
A budget re-forecast was required due to excessive operational cost increases because of inflationary pressures and additional core staff requirements. We remain confident that we will deliver the end-of-year forecast.
On the upside, it was pleasing to complete work on The Trusts’ strategic plan and receive approval from our boards to proceed. In terms of community funding, a Your West Support Fund is planned for the second half of this year.