Steve Double, Member of Parliament for St Austell and Newquay has welcomed today’s announcement by Chancellor Rishi Sunak that Charities across the UK will receive a £750 million package of support to ensure they can continue their vital work during the coronavirus outbreak.
This includes £360 million direct from government departments and £370 million for smaller charities, including through a grant to the National Lottery Community Fund
The Chancellor also announced the Government will match fund whatever the public decides to donate to the BBC’s Big Night In charity appeal on 23 April, starting with a contribution of at least £20 million to the National Emergencies Trust appeal.
Commenting, Steve said:
“Cornwall is one of the most generous counties in the UK and we have many excellent local charities, many who deliver vital and much needed services, who are suffering due to not being able to fundraise during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I have been working with colleagues in Government to pass on the concerns of these charities and am delighted to see our Chancellor again come forward with support for them in their hour of need.”
“I have been particularly aware that local charities such as Cornwall Hospice Care and Cornwall Air Ambulance have been facing financial challenges during this time. I am keen to ensure some of this support gets to them as well as the many other important local charities.”
“I will continue to work to ensure the voice of Cornwall is heard loud and clear and that our people, businesses and charities get all the support they need at this difficult time.”
As part of a UK-wide package of support, £360 million will be directly allocated by government departments to charities providing key services and supporting vulnerable people during the crisis.
As well as this, £370 million for small and medium-sized charities, including through a grant to the National Lottery Community Fund for those in England, will support those organisations at the heart of local communities which are making a big difference during the outbreak, including those delivering food, essential medicines and providing financial advice.
Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak 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.”
“This will ensure our key charities can continue to deliver the services that millions of people up and down the country rely on.”