THE 'world has changed' and Age Concern in the Dean will need to focus on having a properly prepared business plan to sustain itself 'without relying on grants in the future', the charity's AGM has been told.

Speaking to the AGM in Cinderford, chair Dr Daphne Peason, said while Age Concern in the Forest faces 'major challenges' she was 'cautiously optimistic' they'd be able to overcome the difficulties ahead.

"Last year after our AGM, there were some rumours that Age Concern could not continue and would be closing down.

"This kind of speculation is unhelpful and dangerous and I do not want anyone to go away from here today with these thoughts in mind. We have had productive talks with the Forest of Dean District Council and they are in full agreement that our services are necessary and must continue and they will help us to achieve this.

"We are, and always have been, along with other similar charities, The Big Society in action on the ground and government understands our value. They are beginning to understand that we cannot operate without resources in the form of money and volunteers.

"The world has changed since 2008 and we now have to write a strategic business plan and begin to sustain ourselves without relying on grants in the future.

"Grants will continue for particular projects, but core funding, that is the day to day costs of services running, is likely to have to be provided by the charity itself.

"I am cautiously optimistic. By the end of the year we hope to have moved the kitchen to new, more practical premises from which we can operate and expand."

While Age Concern's information and advice service closed down in Lydney earlier this year, to be replaced by a second shop, Dr Pearson said: "It is not impossible that we shall re-open them in the future as a Forest-based service again."

But the biggest task for the year ahead is raising funds to move the kitchens and refurbish premises.

"To this end we shall be working with Andrew Hunt, a volunteer from the Cranfield Institute who will advise us on our business plan and future strategy."

After thanking retiring manager, Alan Gore, Dr Pearson said: "The very best thing you can do for us is to leave here being optimistic about our future and spread the word that we are here – use us.

"The greater take up of our meals service that we have, the more we can expand so, please, tell anyone you know who you think could benefit from our locally-prepared meals and our helpful volunteers who deliver them."