Landmark merger set to strengthen community support across Staffordshire

Support Staffordshire and The Globe Group CIC have announced a merger that will expand climate action, green skills training and long-term support for nonprofit and community organisations across the county. From 1 December 2025, Globe will become a wholly owned trading subsidiary of Support Staffordshire.

For the county’s nonprofit sector, this merger responds directly to growing pressures. Rising energy costs, climate impacts, funding challenges and increasing expectations from commissioners mean that local organisations need practical ways to future proof their services and their communities. The merger creates a single, accessible place for groups to get support on sustainability, resilience planning, community energy and skills development.

Support Staffordshire has been strengthening its climate and nature work through the Staffordshire Green Network and the Transforming the Trent Valley partnership. Globe brings established place-based sustainability programmes including the Climate Expo, the Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Celebration of the Possible, Carbon Literacy and green skills training, and consultancy support for Staffordshire Community Energy. Combining these areas of expertise will help nonprofit organisations navigate the transition to a greener, more resilient future and adapt to the changes already affecting their work. 

A central focus of the merger is future proofing the sector. This includes helping organisations reduce long-term running costs, access new funding linked to sustainability and social value, develop the skills needed for the emerging green economy, and ensure that buildings, services and communities are better prepared for future climate and economic pressures.

The merger will also strengthen the sector’s ability to influence policy and advocate for fairer climate action that reflects the realities of local charities and community groups. A refreshed and more coordinated communications approach will support clearer guidance, better access to opportunities and stronger visibility for the work already taking place across Staffordshire.

The Globe Eco Centre in Uttoxeter will remain open and is expected to grow its offer as a hub for learning, events and sustainability activity, while also becoming Support Staffordshire’s base in East Staffordshire.

Kate Copeland-Rhodes, Managing Director of The Globe Group CIC, said:
“Communities are facing increasing pressures, and we knew Globe needed to do more. By joining with an organisation that shares our values, we can offer greater impact, reach more people and help build a more resilient future for Staffordshire.”

Garry Jones, Chief Executive of Support Staffordshire, said:
“Having worked in collaboration with The Globe Group CIC over the past years, it is a natural progression that they merge within the SuS fold. Together, we can ensure a stronger, more sustainable future for the communities we serve.”

For more information about the merger, please visit globefoundation.org.uk/ or supportstaffordshire.org.uk