The Covid-19 pandemic shattered our everyday lives – many have struggled to buy food and essentials, and suffered daily anxiety about the risk of infection. From isolation, health fears and financial uncertainty, to the heartbreak of loss and separation, for many, the months spent under lockdowns have been the most difficult of our lives. It has been our small local charities that have offered the lifeline that has helped get us through, who showed up and then stuck around, using their position of trust within communities experiencing complex social issues to support people when they were needed most.

From safe accommodation for homeless and rough sleepers to care and support for vulnerable older people and their families, or helping those at risk of violence or abuse at home to getting food and essentials to vulnerable households, we have been proud to provide vital funding, investing nearly £4 million last year to help our charities and volunteers take action in these exceptional times. As we make our way out of the last Covid-19 restrictions, we continue to champion the innovation and determination of our local charities, helping to build stronger communities and improve the lives of people in Norfolk.