A charity supporting voluntary and community groups across Wharfedale has reaffirmed its commitment to keeping a base in Ilkley.

KIVCA (Keighley and Ilkley Voluntary and Community Action) says an external review confirmed “overwhelming support” for a focal point in Ilkley itself.

Chief executive Caroline Schwaller warned KIVCA faces funding cuts, but despite difficulties raising funds for the Riddings Road, Ilkley office the charity has continued to support it.

KIVCA helps organisations with information, funding advice and policy and legal issues.

It also offers practical services like photocopying and supports a number of projects such as the Good Neighbours Community Transport, ShopAssist and befriending schemes. Other staff are based at Central Hall in Keighley.

The charity, formerly Keighley Voluntary Services, took on the services of Ilkley and District Council for Voluntary Service (ICVS) in 2008.

Early in 2009, Mrs Schwaller assured Ilkley Parish Council that services in Ilkley were secure until at least 2011, which would be a “crunch point” for funding. But she says a recent external review has shown how important it is for the organisation to have a focal point in Ilkley.

“We are very committed to covering the whole constituency and this review has confirmed the need for an accessible resource in Ilkley,” she said.

“Despite difficulties in raising funds for the Ilkley office, we have continued to support it.

“We will look for ways of developing new initiatives to meet the needs of people in Wharfedale.”

During the past year, says KIVCA, the Ilkley office dealt with over 3,000 enquiries.