Research by the Institute of Fundraising, NCVO and Charity Finance has found that 52% of charities have had to reduce their services in response to the COVID-19 crisis. As a result, many organisations are now in an extremely precarious position, often having to deliver additional services with fewer volunteers and staff members, while having to cancel fundraising activities.

Here's a list of emergency funds for charities and social enterprises that are experiencing difficulties. We'll update it as new opportunities are identified, so please contact kris.ambler@bacp.co.uk if you're aware of any funds that should be included.

UK wide funds

Bounce Back Loan Scheme

The Government's Bounce Back Loan Scheme (BBLS) enables businesses and charities to obtain a six-year term loan at a Government set interest rate of 2.5% a year. Loans will be from £2,000 up to 25% of a business’ turnover or £50,000, whichever is lower. The Government will cover interest payable in the first year. The borrower remains 100% liable for the debt.

For more information and to apply, visit the GOV.UK website

Crowdfunder

Crowdfunder, the UK crowdfunding platform, has removed fees for charity and community group users during the crisis.

Emergency loan fund for charities and social enterprises

The Resilience and Recovery Loan Fund will enable social lenders to provide emergency loans to eligible charities and social enterprises. No personal guarantees and no fees or interest will apply for 12 months. This is part of a £100 million package of support announced by Big Society Capital.

Applications for the Resilience and Recovery Loan Fund are now open.

National Emergencies Trust

The National Emergencies Trust (NET) has launched an appeal to raise funds for local charities and grassroots organisations that have been impacted by coronavirus. The Trust is planning to distribute grants through a network of local community foundations. Organisations in need of funding will need to apply directly to a community foundation, not to the NET.

To find your local community foundation, visit the Community Foundations website.

National Lottery Community Fund

All National Lottery Community Fund (NLCF) funding decisions in the next six months (up to £300m of funding) will be devoted to responding to the COVID-19 crisis. The NLCF will prioritise existing grant holders and applicants with activities specifically geared to supporting communities through this crisis, and helping organisations overcome liquidity issues caused by COVID-19.

Tesco Bags of Help COVID-19 Communities Fund

A new short-term fund to support local communities. Organisations supporting vulnerable groups can apply for a single payment award of £500.

Check the Tesco Community Grants website for details - the fund is currently closed in some areas.

England funding

National Lottery Awards for All England

The programme provides funding between £300 and £10,000, and is currently accepting applications from voluntary and community organisations in England.

For eligibility criteria, visit the National Lottery Awards for All England website.

Northern Ireland funding

National Lottery Awards for All Northern Ireland

The programme provides funding between £300 and £10,000, and is currently accepting applications from voluntary and community organisations in Northern Ireland.

For eligibility criteria please visit the National Lottery Awards for All Northern Ireland website.

Scotland funding

National Lottery Awards for All Scotland

The programme provides funding between £300 and £10,000 and is currently accepting applications from voluntary and community organisations in Scotland.

For eligibility criteria please visit the National Lottery Awards for All Scotland website.

Wales funding

National Lottery Awards for All Wales

The programme provides funding between £300 and £10,000, and is currently accepting applications from voluntary and community organisations in Wales. 

For eligibility criteria, visit the National Lottery Awards for All Wales website.