CVS Cheshire East has reopened its doors in Crewe - although visitors need to book their appointments with the charity's staff.

Many voluntary organisations and charities still have their front of office bases closed with staff working remotely.

But the Council for Voluntary Services' offices in Gatefield Street can now be visited by most visitors under strict conditions and finance and HR manager Kris Walton confirmed: "Visitors will have to book an appointment to come to our premises but we are open. In fact, we've not really been closed as we have all been working from home during this time."

CVS Cheshire East is keen to encourage networking among Crewe groups to help them out of lockdown while also publicising opportunities to secure grants to help them restart or direct help to those in most need.

It has teamed up with Crewe Town Council to host virtual networking sessions where advice can be imparted and concerns raised as long as discussions on partnership working.

These are held on Mondays and Wednesdays with the next scheduled for Wednesday, August 5 (11am-1:30pm) and Monday, August 17 (2-4.30pm).

Any group wanting to take part can book here

CVS Cheshire East is pointing groups in the direction of the Covid-19 Response Grants Programme which is being run by the Cheshire Community Foundation with a pot of £200,000 available to be distributed.

It is long-term support for community organisations that are helping vulnerable people affected by the pandemic and most of the grants made will be from £1,000 up to £5,000.

Groups that can apply include registered charities, community interest companies, parish and town councils, PTAs, and churches and other religious organisations.

The deadline is August 12 and the application form is here