Extra £750m coronavirus funding for frontline charities

Late last week, the Chancellor announced 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 coronavirus pandemic, as well as continuing their day-to-day activities.

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. 

These 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; vulnerable children charities; and Citizens Advice to increase the number of staff providing advice during this difficult time. 

Additionally, £370 million will go to small and medium-sized charities, including through a grant to the National Lottery Community Fund for those in England, aimed at supporting local organisations delivering food, essential medicines and providing financial advice.

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.

"Our charities are playing a crucial role in the national fight against coronavirus, supporting those who are most in need," said Mr Sunak.

"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."

The latest announcement builds on previous announcements by the Chancellor to support charities and businesses, including deferring their VAT bills, paying no business rates for their shops next year, and furloughing staff where possible with the government paying 80 per cent of their wages.