ROBERT Halfon MP has called on the Government to grant emergency funding to support charities, volunteers organisations and social enterprises delivering vital services in Harlow, amid the coronavirus outbreak.

In a cross-party letter to the Chancellor, Rishi Sunak, signed by over 236 MPs and Peers, Mr Halfon highlights the “vital” role of our charities in “alleviat[ing] the pressure on our NHS”.

Mr Halfon said: “Harlow is blessed with incredible community groups, charities and volunteers, who have stepped up to help others at this time of great need.

“I’ve been pleased to work closely with our charities and not-for-profit organisations in Harlow, with bi-weekly conference calls, to coordinate our response and help support the most vulnerable in our community.”

“But, our charities and community groups deserve the support they need to keep them afloat, as they provide support to vulnerable people during the coronavirus crisis. That’s why, I’m campaigning on behalf of our Harlow charities for vital funding to offer them the stability to get through the next few weeks and months.”

Reports suggest that the charity sector faces potential losses of £4.3 billion over the next 3 months. The letter calls for emergency funding (including a stablisation fund), as well as reassurances that charities are eligible for the Government’s package of business interruption measures, such as grant payments of up to 80% of workers’ wages during the coronavirus crisis