AN emergency COVID-19 fund has been set up to help out organisations in Crewe who have been hard hit by the pandemic.

Voluntary groups and third sector bodies will be able to apply for grants of up to £1,000 as part of a new initiative by Crewe Town Council.

The council's COVID-19 Community Response Fund will help out groups in need in these difficult times, including those who are reopening but are short of cash to undertake safety measures.

Council Community Engagement Officer Hannah Marr said: "Groups are starting to reopen and they would benefit from some financial assistance.

"A lot of buildings will have to be adapted and additional equipment will be needed so they can open safely to the public."

The council is to ring fence a pot of £20,000 from £50,000 in its Grants Scheme budget which organisations can apply for to buy essential equipment such as PPE.

Many voluntary organisations, such as Cheshire and Warrington Carers which has an office in the Brierley Street Business Centre, remain closed with staff working from home.

It is hoped the extra funding will help groups open their doors again so they can welcome visitors and hold appointments with vulnerable people and those needing their help.

The number of applications will be limited and only one grant can be made per organisation. All the applications will be assessed by the council's Grants Working Group before the awards are made.

Members of the council's community plan committee have recommended to a full council meeting next month that the scheme is established.