Covid-19 Support for Charities’ Response
2020-06-10
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Q1
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Context
UK-based charities face significant challenges due to the pandemic, with many cutting overseas programmes and facing financial difficulties.
UK-based international charities are under unprecedented pressure at a time when their services are most needed. Research shows that over half have reduced overseas programs and nearly half may not survive another six months. Will the Minister ensure that the review of their work begins by addressing those with the lowest transparency scores and focusing on programmes not prioritizing poverty reduction?
I ought to wish you happy birthday as well, Mr Speaker. That was rather remiss of me. The hon. Lady makes a very important point. Civil society is an important policy and delivery partner for DFID and I absolutely recognise the work it does. Our continued partnership will be critical in ensuring that UK aid reaches those most in need as a result of covid-19. There are a number of funding schemes and programmes that DFID has recently announced and allocated, including a new £30 million UK Aid Direct funding round that is open specifically for small and medium-sized charities based both in the UK and internationally to support the global response to covid-19.
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