CrossReach launches new 5 year strategy

Last week we were delighted to mark the launch our new five-year strategy. 

At a launch event before our carol concert last Thursday, CrossReach supporters, donors, special guests and friends attended a special drinks reception where they were the first to hear about the new five-year plan which will help guide us towards a bright future over the next five years.

A video to launch the strategy was played which featured CEO Viv Dickenson and set out the plan titled ‘Love From CrossReach’.

Speaking at the launch, Viv said: “CrossReach set out with a big aspiration. To form a strategic plan that would guide decision making, generate shared ownership and accountability – and provide clarity which would allow us to steer our own course through the many challenges and opportunities we see daily within the social care sector.

“We took time to ask ourselves big questions, re-evaluate our core assumptions, challenge ourselves on established thinking, and most importantly we took time to try and silence the noise around us and listen. 

To listen to the voices of those we support, the loved ones who entrust their people within our care. Our staff voices our volunteers, our board – the Church. 

“We are also grateful to many industry colleagues who provided valuable input and perspective as we navigated our path.

“Today I’m delighted to say that we got there, and from January next year we will be following a new strategic path which will light the way for us into the next 5 years.
“As we draw this year to a close, we look forward to another year beginning. That is much the same as our journey. 

“The end of this walk, doesn’t really mean the end – it means the beginning, for us – and for you. 

“We would value your continued support into the future as you continue this road with us. We will no doubt face many challenges but having the valued support of trusted friends and colleagues is something that we value dearly.”

Dr Mike Cantlay, convenor of the CrossReach Board, added: “Today, CrossReach plays its part in continuing the 150 year tradition of the Church of Scotland by offering care and support to around 28,000 people annually. 

“As one of the largest and most diverse not-for–profit providers of social care in Scotland we are deeply rooted in communities, empowering people of all ages to live life to the full. 

“The services, delivered by our specialist teams in Children and Families, Adult Care and Older People fill a vital role between the private and statutory sector, offering a person-centred approach. 

“They have changed over time but are as much needed today as they ever have been. CrossReach looks to the future with optimism and ambition. We strive to offer excellence in service delivery, we aspire to be at the forefront of change, working with local and national partners to find better ways of supporting people, and we want to do all of this in a way which is sustainable and cost-effective. 

“At the core of the ambition lies love, a deep rooted concern for others which speaks to our common humanity and dignity.

“As you read through this strategy, we hope that you too find that love in abundance and can support us in our aspirations for a Scotland in which all can thrive.”

You can view our strategy online at: www.crossreach.org.uk/about-us/strategy