New £1 million pot has been set up to help charities and community groups across Harborough seriously threatened by the coronavirus outbreak

A new £1 million pot has been set up to boost vital charities and community groups across Harborough seriously threatened by the coronavirus outbreak.

The £1million fund “designed to support communities during the most challenging times in almost a century” is being launched by Leicestershire County Council.

The authority has put aside the cash to ensure embattled voluntary organisations can continue to carry out their crucial work.

Groups are being urged to find out more about the Leicestershire Communities Fund and apply by visiting: www.leicestershirecommunities.org.uk/leicestershire-communities-fund

Cllr Nick Rushton, leader of Leicestershire County Council, said: “Every day, the work of volunteers and groups keeps communities thriving.

“But, unfortunately, the measures needed to curb coronavirus threaten their income and viability.

“That’s why we’ve launched this new fund.” He added: “It’s never been more important for communities to band together and support each other.

“And it’s crucial that their work not only continues but groups are able to step up activities to support vulnerable people and those isolating.

“This fund enables people to stay safe by staying at home and ultimately, saves lives. “I’d like to thank our volunteers and community groups for their fantastic work and encourage them to visit the website to find out more.”

Charities, constituted voluntary and community organisations and social enterprises can apply for a maximum of £25,000 for support with the following activities:

Support for core running costs - for organisations who have experienced a loss of income due to services closing or operating at a reduced level and where this may lead to the permanent closure of the organisation

Extra staffing - capacity required to meet existing, current or increased demand for services, to support vulnerable people during the crisis

Adapting services - the need to rapidly adapt current service delivery models to maintain contact with service users

Equipment - funding for essential ICT, safety (such as PPE) or other essential equipment

Transport - funding for use of vehicles, transport, fuel etc. to enable visits to service users

Expenses - funding for increased expenses costs such as reimbursing travel costs for staff/volunteers who need to visit service users, if it safe to do so, in their home or in other locations.

Other - anything else deemed acceptable in relation to the criteria for the fund.

Find out more and apply online at: www.leicestershirecommunities.org.uk/leicestershire-communities-fund or send an email to: [email protected]