CORONAVIRUS: The Wiltshire and Swindon Coronavirus Response Fund receives donation

The newly launched Wiltshire and Swindon Coronavirus Response Fund is working alongside the National Emergencies Trust’s Coronavirus Appeal, also launched this week, to raise money for groups helping the most vulnerable people across the county.

The Underwood Trust, set up to improve the quality of people’s lives and the environment, is one of the first groups to donate to the fund, and WCF interim co-chief executive Fiona Oliver described it as a "wonderful gesture".

She added: “At this time many grass roots charities and organisations are facing unprecedented challenges and are under immense pressures as they try to support the most vulnerable people in our communities.

“We don’t yet know what the full effects of this pandemic will be on these groups who do such vital work, which is why we want to build a fund that is ready to help once the fallout becomes clearer.

“The people of Wiltshire and Swindon have always responded wonderfully in times of crisis and we are certain they will do so again."

The money raised will be distributed to groups alongside Wiltshire and Swindon’s share of the National Emergencies Trust Coronavirus Appeal fund, which will be funnelled through the UK’s 46 community foundations.

A spokesman for the UK Community Foundation, the umbrella group representing the foundations, said: “The National Emergencies Trust has launched an appeal to raise funds to help local charities to support those individuals suffering hardship as a result of the coronavirus outbreak.

"The National Emergencies Trust will distribute money raised through a number of charitable organisations including local Community Foundations, to ensure it reaches those who need it most.

“Community Foundations are well placed to support local charities to overcome challenges presented by this ongoing emergency.”

To donate visit the Wiltshire and Swindon Coronavirus Response Fund website.