York Central MP believes charities are vital in helping the area recover from coronavirus
Rachael Maskell held an online meeting with the York Centre for Voluntary Services yesterday
The MP for York Central believes charities will continue to play a key role in the area’s recovery from coronavirus.
Rachael Maskell, who’s also the Shadow Civil Society Minister, held an online meeting with the York Centre for Voluntary Services yesterday (Wednesday 17th February) for local charities and grassroots voluntary organisations in the York.
Organisations and volunteers discussed the impact and challenges they faced as a consequence of the COVID pandemic.
Other topics of discussion included the longer term plan for the sector, what support the sector requires and how the sector has a pivotal role in leading the parts of the recovery in communities.
Many local organisations are now in a precarious position because of financial strains and extra demand on their services, but are crucial to the wellbeing of our communities, providing essential support to many people.
Rachael Maskell MP, said:
“Local charities and grassroots voluntary organisations are the lifeblood of their communities and I have been inspired to hear so many stories from constituents across York who have relied on volunteers and charities during this pandemic, they really have been a lifeline for so many in our community.
“The Civil Society Sector has continued to support local communities, as they always have, through the worst period of this Covid19 pandemic, providing help, practical support, reaching deep into communities to meet need in every way imaginable.
“As always the sector has reached out with the care and professionalism that York’s voluntary sector is known for, while also ensuring that the holistic needs of people are addressed. Charities have been #NeverMoreNeeded, but as fundraising has had to pause are now extremely financially challenged as they are #NeverMoreInNeed.
“As we move to this next phase of the pandemic it is essential that we understand the important role that organisations must play in recovery and how we build a strong future for the sector in York. "
Alison Semmence, Chair of York Centre for Voluntary Services (CVS) commented before the meeting took place:
“York’s voluntary, community and social enterprise sector continues to go above and beyond to support those most in need within our city.
"We welcome the opportunity to meet with Rachael Maskell MP, to discuss the challenges we are facing as a sector, and to be part of the recovery process.”