Supporting funds for those affected by Covid-19

We’re committed in supporting funding efforts wherever we can. That’s why we’ve made a contribution to help vulnerable people and charities affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Covid-19 Support Fund aims to raise £100 million and will comprise voluntary contributions from firms within the sector.

The key aim of the fund is to provide immediate relief to charities affected by Covid-19, as well as a longer-term programme of support for people, communities, and issues where there is the greatest need, including:

• Community based charities that are under unprecedented strain
• Charities supporting the most vulnerable – in particular, families and children living in greatest poverty and older people in isolation
• Initiatives to promote wellbeing and mental health across society

Our CEO, Andy Watson, said: “We recognise the devastating impact the outbreak has had on people and communities across UK and the world. We are striving to support in every way we can and we’re proud to be a contributor to this important new fund.”

As you know, our teams have also been working hard to support customers, employees and the wider public since the pandemic hit the UK. As you’ll be aware, some of our efforts have included:

• Extending free breakdown cover to direct customers who work for the NHS
• Allowing motor insurance customers who are helping their community by volunteering to deliver food or medicines to extend their cover for these activities at no cost
• Reducing pricing of motor insurance policies to reflect the current situation
• Providing additional support to customers facing financial challenges as a result of the pandemic

Our employees have worked hard to ensure they’re still able to support customers during their time of need, even with social distancing and recent lockdown measures impacting day to day work for all.

We are continuing to help with everything from getting cars fixed after an accident, to replacing important household items that have been damaged during lockdown.

The Covid-19 Support Fund launched today (May 18) is in partnership with the Charities Aid Foundation, and a network of partners, including the National Emergencies Trust.

It is supported by members of the ABI (Association of British Insurers), The British Insurance Brokers’ Association (BIBA), Lloyd’s, and The London Market Group (LMG).

Sir John Low, Chief Executive of the Charities Aid Foundation (CAF), said: “Getting these vital funds quickly and safely into the hands of the many charities at the heart of our communities is central to CAF’s mission and we are proud to be able to work alongside those in the insurance and long-term savings industries to make this happen. We know it will make a huge difference to many people in need of support at this time.”

Lord Dannatt, Chairman of the National Emergencies Trust, said: “Since the launch of our coronavirus appeal, generous pledges have meant we have been able to distribute more than £30m and make more than 4,000 grants to charities across the UK. We are hugely appreciative of the support from the insurance and long-term savings community and will work to ensure the funds raised are quickly distributed to those who are most in need.”