Breast Cancer Now today confirmed that it will make 45 staff redundant and close its Edinburgh office, having concluded a staff consultation.
The charity, which funds a third of all breast cancer research in the UK, announced in June that it estimates a 34% drop in income as a result of the pandemic.
It says the redundancies are therefore necessary in order to help meet the required cost savings.
The charity had initially said it could make up to 60 of its 300 staff redundant.
The closure of its Edinburgh office will leave it with offices in London, Sheffield, Cardiff and Glasgow. The details and timings of the Edinburgh closure are yet to be finalised.
‘We know we are not alone in the sector in needing to make significant changes’
Baroness Delyth Morgan, chief executive at Breast Cancer Now, said: “At a time where the need for our work for people affected by breast cancer has never been greater, we have been forced to make some extremely difficult decisions to ensure we can continue our world-class research and life-changing support services.
“As part of this, following a staff consultation, we have now sadly said goodbye to 45 valued colleagues as a result of redundancy, as well taking the decision to close one of our offices in Scotland. It has been a very tough period of change for all our brilliant staff, who have all continued to show such professionalism, resilience and patience, and a continued commitment to the charity despite the challenging circumstances.
“We know we are not alone in the sector in needing to make significant changes to the way we work as we navigate the continuing uncertainty the pandemic brings. However, despite the changes and uncertain future for the sector and wider world, one certainty for us remains.
“We know that people affected by breast cancer need us now more than ever before, and so our commitment to our vision remains; we will continue to tirelessly work towards our vision that by 2050, everyone who develops breast cancer will live and will be supported to live well.”
Changes to the senior leadership team
Breast Cancer Now has also said that it will be making changes to its to senior leadership team and directorate structure.
The charity will continue to be led by Morgan, alongside three directors who will head up three new directorates spanning all areas of the charity’s work.
Its fundraising, communications and engagement will be led by Rachael Franklin, its research, support and influencing by Dr Simon Vincent, and its corporate services led by Chay Champness.
Additionally, Dr Emma Pennery will take on a new non-executive ambassador role as clinical director for Breast Cancer Now.
She will focus predominantly on engaging with the health professional community, representing the charity on expert committees and government bodies, and acting as a charity spokesperson to the media and key stakeholders.
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