Charities across the UK will receive a £750 million package of support to ensure they can continue their vital work during the coronavirus outbreak – news which has been welcomed by North Swindon MP Justin Tomlinson.
Tens of thousands of charities providing vital services will benefit from direct cash grants to ensure they can meet increased demand as a result of the virus as well as continuing their day-to-day activities supporting those in need.
As part of the package, £360 million will be directly allocated by Government departments to charities providing key services and supporting vulnerable people during the crisis.
Those charities that will be directly allocated funding by Government departments will include hospices, to help increase capacity and give stability to the sector; St Johns Ambulance, to support the NHS; victims charities (including domestic abuse charities), to help with the potential increase in demand for charities providing these services; charities that help vulnerable children, so they can continue delivering services on behalf of local authorities; and Citizens Advice, to increase the number of staff providing advice during this difficult time.
In addition to this, £370 million has been allocated to support small and medium-sized charities, including through a grant to the National Lottery Community Fund for those in England. This will support organisations working at the heart of local communities to provide vital support, including those delivering food, essential medicines and providing financial advice.
The Government has also pledged to match fund whatever the public decides to donate to the BBC’s Big Night In charity appeal later this month – committing to a minimum of £20 million.
The announcement builds on other measures taken by the Government to support charities, which includes deferring their VAT bills, paying no business rates for their shops next year, and furloughing staff where possible with the Government paying 80% of their wages.
Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak MP said:
“Our charities are playing a crucial role in the national fight against coronavirus, supporting those who are most in need. It’s right we do everything we can to help the sector during this difficult time, which is why we have announced this unprecedented £750 million package of extra funding.”
Justin Tomlinson said: “Charities have a vital role during the current outbreak, providing crucial services and support to vulnerable people. This funding will ensure that these charities are able to continue to support their local communities. ”
