Rachael Maskell MP, Shadow Civil Society Minister is holding an online meeting in conjunction with York Centre for Voluntary Services (CVS), on Wednesday 17 February for local charities and grassroots voluntary organisations in the York. Organisations and volunteers will have the opportunity to discuss the impact and challenges they face as a consequence of the COVID pandemic and the longer term plan for the sector. The discussions will focus on 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, they are crucial to the wellbeing our communities, providing essential support to many people. There are approximately 50 local organisations already signed up to attend, if you would like to be involved, please email Racahel.maskell.mp@parliament.uk for further information.
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. I will not only be listening to what we need to do in our city, but how to take the very best as a model of how we support the sector nationally.
Alison Semmence, Chair of York Centre for Voluntary Services (CVS) said:
“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.”