ACEVO CEO comments on the news that the government has invited charities offering critical services to apply for £71m fund

Our members working on the front line supporting communities through some of the toughest economic conditions in the recent past have told us consistently of the hardship they are seeing, the increase in need for their services and support, and of the increased complexity of those needs. 
 
Charities are themselves also subject to rising cost pressures in delivering vital support and leaders are finding themselves and their organisations under significant strain.
 
We are very pleased that the DCMS and TNLCF have today launched this grant programme for civil society organisations that have seen both an increase in demand and a rise in operating costs. The £71m available will help many front line organisations continue to do their essential work supporting communities around the country and building resilience for the coming winter months.
 
When this funding was announced by the Chancellor in March it was a clear recognition of the value and importance of civil society in helping communities weather the storms around them. We will continue to work with government to identify any areas where further support may be needed, particularly as we look set to move into the next winter period with cost of living pressures remaining stubbornly high for so many.