UK Charities Land Massive £750 Million Lifeline in Coronavirus Crisis
The Government has announced a huge £750 million bailout to keep UK charities afloat during the coronavirus outbreak. Chancellor Rishi Sunak revealed the multi-million-pound boost today, aimed at helping thousands of frontline organisations continue their vital work amid soaring demand.
£360 Million Goes Direct to Frontline Charities
Of the total package, £360 million will be handed directly to charities providing essential services and supporting vulnerable groups. Key recipients include hospices, St John Ambulance, domestic abuse support groups, children’s charities, and Citizens Advice to ramp up their staff and meet rising needs.
These frontline charities are crucial in delivering care, food, medication, and financial advice during the pandemic. Government departments will fast-track funds, aiming for cash to hit accounts within weeks.
£370 Million for Smaller Community Charities
Another £370 million is earmarked for small and medium-sized charities. The National Lottery Community Fund will administer grants in England, supporting local groups at the heart of communities. This cash will help those delivering essentials such as food, medicine, and vital advice.
The Government will also match every penny raised by the public during the BBC’s Big Night In telethon on 23 April, starting with a £20 million contribution to the National Emergencies Trust.
Top Figures Praise Charities’ Vital Role
Rishi Sunak, Chancellor: “Our charities are playing a crucial role in the national fight against coronavirus, supporting those most in need. This unprecedented £750 million package ensures they can keep delivering services millions rely on.”
Oliver Dowden, Culture Secretary: “Our brilliant charities, backed by an army of volunteers, are key to tackling this crisis. We’re determined to support them and match the generosity of the British public.”
Matt Hancock, Health Secretary: “Hospices have faced huge challenges but remain vital for end-of-life care. This cash boost gives them financial stability so they can support the NHS and care for vulnerable people.
Charity Leaders Welcome the Funding Boost
Tracey Bleakley, CEO Hospice UK: “This £200 million per quarter funding will help hospices continue providing specialist care and relieve NHS pressure at this critical time. But it’s still vital the public keeps supporting their local hospices.”
John Herriman, National Emergencies Trust CEO: “The extra funding builds on our Coronavirus appeal success, allowing us to deliver quick and fair support to thousands in need, from food deliveries to help for those isolating.”
Dawn Austwick, National Lottery Community Fund CEO: “Charities have stepped up brilliantly during this crisis. We’re proud to work alongside the Government to get funding where it’s needed most.”
Ruth Davison, Comic Relief CEO: “The Big Night In means vital cash for smaller charities keeping people fed, safe and supported during the pandemic.”
Sir John Low, Charities Aid Foundation CEO: “This Treasury package gives crucial support to charities facing massive demand and squeezed incomes. The generosity of the British public right now is humbling, and charities need this help now – and beyond the crisis.”
Support Across the UK
The funding package is being rolled out UK-wide, with devolved administrations receiving allocations through the Barnett formula. This ensures Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland get equivalent support for their charities.
With the charity sector under intense pressure, this £750 million boost is a lifeline as Britain rallies to fight the pandemic — proving that when the chips are down, our charities really step up.
