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<p>I recognise that many charities such as Coeliac UK are experiencing some particular
pressures as a result of loss of income as a result of Covid 19, while demand for
their services is unchanged or even increasing. The voluntary sector is playing a
vital role in providing services for vulnerable people, and will continue to be an
important vehicle for the UK’s Covid-19 response.</p><p><strong> </strong></p><p>I
thank Coeliac UK for continuing to work closely with gluten free food industry contacts
to understand how coronavirus might affect the production and supply of gluten free
food to make sure that the safety of people with coeliac disease is maintained.</p><p><strong>
</strong></p><p>In response to the pressures faced by charities and voluntary organisations
a package of grant funds worth £750 million was announced on 8 April to support charities
at risk of financial hardship. This is a substantial package of targeted support for
charities on the frontline of responding to Coronavirus. £360 million is coming directly
from government departments, and £370 million will be provided for smaller charities,
including through a grant to the National Lottery Community Fund. More information
on this second tranche of funding More details will be released in the coming days
via the National Lottery Community Fund. The aim is to get funding to those in greatest
need as soon as possible.</p><p><strong> </strong></p><p>Charities also have access
to cross-cutting support already announced including the Coronavirus Job Retention
Scheme, which enables them to furlough staff, and a three-month VAT deferral.</p><p>
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