LISTEN: New £15 Million charities fund for those affected by COVID-19

By Q Radio News.

A new £15 million Covid-19 charities fund is to be launched, to help support those local charities that have been negatively impacted by the current Covid-19 crisis.

Speaking about the announcement, Deirdre Hargey said: “I am acutely aware that our local charity sector, who do so much good work for such a diverse range of causes, are facing difficulties during these challenging times. 

“Many in this sector have been at the front line in responding to the emergency and to supporting our most vulnerable citizens now and as we plan for recovery.”

The Minister explained that her Department are working at a pace to develop a support programme

She said: “My officials are urgently developing a Covid-19 Charities Fund, to assist charities to deal with the impacts of this emergency. I recognise the impact this emergency has had on traditional fundraising activities, and that this is a worrying time for many in the sector.

"The sector is made up of diverse groups, doing fantastic work in our communities. Given that this is a limited fund, it is important that the scheme is carefully considered and ensures the best possible use of the resources available, to support and prioritise needs within the sector.

“A public announcement will be made once the funding arrangements and the application process have been finalised and then agreed by the Executive.”

Reacting to the funding package, the charity group CO3 Chief Executive Nora Smith said:

“This is a welcome announcement from Minister Hargey which will help relieve some of the immediate pressures within our local charity sector. Charities have seen their incomes decimated due to the pandemic and at a time when demand for services has actually increased.

Nora Smith

“This fund must be the first measure in a wider and much more comprehensive rescue package to save the sector.

“We now need urgent clarity over the application criteria and eligibility for this fund. This injection of money needs to reach those organisations on the ground without delay.”