Back in March 2020 we signed the Covid-19 Funders Pledge, coordinated by London Funders. We, along with a wider group of funders, recognised that the impact of the covid-19 outbreak continues to have a significant impact on civil society groups.

This winter, as the country prepares to move out of a second national lockdown, we want to offer renewed assurance that we stand with the sector at this time, so we have reconfirmed our commitment to the Covid-19 Funders pledge.

We recognise that these are difficult times for everyone – personally and professionally – and that there will be challenges ahead for us all. We are strongest when we work together, so if you receive grant funding from us we are committed to:

Listening – we’re continuing to listen to the needs of our communities and civil society, and remain committed to the original pledges of the We Stand With The Sector statement on flexibility and responsiveness to these needs.

Learning – we’re learning all the time about how we and civil society can strengthen our work together, and are thinking about how we can share and apply this learning so that we can continue to be effective funders for the future.

Long-term – we’re here for you in lockdowns, and we’ll still be here beyond crisis – we’re working hard to make sure our funding helps communities and civil society thrive now and in the years ahead, and will continue to be open with you as our funding response develops.

We’re proud to play our part in supporting the amazing work of people across civil society – from before covid-19, through the crisis, and into the future. We stand with the sector now, and always.