Local authorities within the Keep it Local Network the have written to the government to highlight the vital role local community organisation play and to call for an emergency grant package for voluntary sector organisations.

They highlighted how vital local community organisations are – both in providing an immediate response to Covid-19, but also in supporting neighbourhoods in the difficult months and years ahead.

It asks for financial support from the government and other funders and for the government to support community organisations by:

• providing clear guidance on how the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme affects staff who might be furloughed, but want to remain working as volunteers to keep essential services going
• for an emergency grant package to support VCSE organisations with cash flow to continue delivery during this crisis.

Find out more and read the full letter here.