Hardship fund reaches out ahead of new Covid restrictions

By Liz Wells in Industry News 3rd November 2020

The NFRN is reminding its members that financial support is still available through its Covid-19 Hardship Fund as England prepares to go into a second national lockdown from Thursday (5 November).

The Covid-19 Hardship Fund was created to alleviate some of the financial pressures that independent retailers may be facing due to the coronavirus pandemic. It offers grants to members suffering cash flow and other financial challenges.

The fund reached a total of £241,621 following donations from NFRN districts, branches, individual members, as well as from suppliers, and publishers. It has helped 95 independent retailers and paid out nearly £120,000.

NFRN national president, Stuart Reddish, said: “The impact of Covid-19 on the lives and businesses of some independent retailers has been unprecedented and, with England set to go into another lockdown and with members in Scotland, Wales and Ireland facing their own restrictions, we are issuing a reminder that our Covid-19 Hardship Fund is still here to help.

“If your store has to close or is struggling to survive due to Covid-19, apply for a grant today via the NFRN’s website, TheFedOnline.”