AFTER campaigning for greater Government support for Harlow charities, including a letter to the Chancellor, Robert Halfon MP has helped secure a major package of funding to help the charity sector get through the coronavirus crisis.

Last night, the Chancellor set out that £750 million would be made available to support UK charities – both local and national.

Mr Halfon said: “I am pleased that the Government has listened to my calls for a package to support wonderful charities in Harlow such as St Clare Hospice, Rainbow Services, the Citizens Advice Bureau and Safer Places.

“Our charities are doing incredible work to provide key services and support to Harlow residents at this difficult time. I pay tribute to every volunteer and employee who is working hard to help those most in need in our community – particularly Jemma Mindham and Rainbow Services, who are coordinating the volunteers.

“This money will make a real difference to our charities and it will allow them to continue doing the brilliant work they do.”

The new package includes:

£360m for charities working on the frontline to fight coronavirus, with up to £200m to support hospices and up to £160m for organisations like St Johns’ Ambulance and the Citizens Advice Bureau and charities supporting vulnerable children, victims of domestic abuse, or disabled people

£370m will support smaller, local charities working with vulnerable people

A commitment that the Government will match whatever the public decides to donate to the BBC Big Night In fundraising event on 23 April, starting with a contribution of at least £20m to the National Emergencies Trust appeal

Under these measures, it has also been confirmed that charities will be entitled to the same benefits and reliefs as businesses. All charities are eligible for the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, allowing them to furlough their employees with the Government paying 80% of wages. Charities can defer their VAT bills and pay no business rates for their shops next year.