Prime Minister Boris Johnson has been asked by several charities to consider an emergency fund to support the volunteer sector after the impact of COVID-19. 

600 charities have signed a letter warning the PM that without substantial funding, many will need to make heavy cuts or close completely. 

In June 2020, the Guardian sourced research from Pro Bono Economics to show that the impact of the pandemic could cost the charity sector up to £10bn in lost income and cost of additional services. Since the UK saw lockdown extended throughout the first quarter of 2021, it’s expected that this figure could increase dramatically. 

Cancer Research UK, Comic Relief, Samaritans, Shelter, NSPCC, Help for Heroes and Age UK were among the charities who signed the letter to the Prime Minister. 

It’s not just the lack of fundraising events causing the financial strain; many charities have had to draw on their funds to cover increased operational costs. The National Trust has reported a shortfall of £200m this year, and Cancer Research warned a loss of £120m over the next 12 months. 

The government did make £750m available to support charities during 2020, but as reported by the NPC, this was mostly assigned to social issues impacted by the virus such as domestic violence and food banks. 

Clearly more needs to be done in-line with the support the country has seen for its retail and hospitality sectors.