Bedford, a non-profit, multi-service organization that serves nearly 3,000 consumers with multiple sclerosis has gone into voluntary administration. This decision comes on the heels of severe fiscal distress. These challenges have severely affected the organization’s business operations, with particular effects felt in their disability employment division, Multiple Solutions. Her Majesty’s government had only very recently been informed of Bedford’s financial emergency.
Federal Minister for Health, Ageing and Disability Mark Butler cut through the noise to stress the urgency of the crisis. He stated that he is not “blasé about the depths of the financial challenge facing Bedford.” South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas voiced this disappointment as well, stating that the organization’s fiscal crisis is worse than expected.
Financial Challenges Leading to Administration
Bedford’s move into voluntary administration comes after a long and difficult gauntlet, paved by Bedford’s serious financial woes. These challenges stem from a few familiar, but unfortunate, factors. Tighter market conditions, higher competition, changes in baseline government funding and costs of operations all factor in heavily. In her remarks, Janine Jackson, communications director for the civil society group, recognized these pressures.
“The cost-of-living crisis has impacted our other fundraising programs and lowered the financial performance of Multiple Solutions’ program,” – MS Society SA & NT.
Reaching the voluntary administration decision was no easy choice. Bedford has a vibrant track record of providing critical services to individuals impacted by multiple sclerosis. Without these sources, its annual revenue from lottery sales and other self-generated funds has been insufficient to advance its mission. A recent drop in lottery sales has added to the fiscal miseries.
MS SA & NT said it was a “hard decision” to make. They only did it by a perfect storm of terrible circumstances, for example, the winding back of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and latest procurement results with Inclusive Employment Australia.
Government Response and Community Impact
The government’s response to Bedford has been prompt but hesitant. When asked about Bedford’s voluntary administration, a federal health spokesperson said this was the first they’d heard of it. Considering these concerns, the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing has agreed to reach out to other stakeholders to obtain additional information.
“The Department of Health, Disability and Ageing will engage with MS SA and NT for further information,” – Source unspecified.
The ramifications of Bedford’s financial crisis reach further than what the city will be able to operate itself. The organization is powered by an incredible grassroots network of passionate donors, advocates, and partners. Their collective efforts have been critically important to our success year after year. Most community members would identify Bedford as an iconic brand in SA, especially known for its fundraising efforts.
Future Outlook for Bedford
Though Bedford faces an uphill battle in the present moment, he is still optimistic about pursuing new opportunities for sustainable change. Janine Jackson, deputy director of media and marketing at IPS, said this demonstrated their readiness to change with the new landscape of the market.
“Despite these challenges, we are committed to securing new opportunities to adapt to the current market,” – Janine Jackson.
Bedford continues to find its way during this stormy weather. It now must grapple with the tremendous challenge of overhauling how it does business, all while continuing to make investments that benefit its customers. The organization finds itself at a potentially existential crossroads. This crucial decision will determine its future and affect millions who rely on its services.
