Lincolnshire’s power network firm launches £500,000 fund to help communities deliver vital support

Western POwer has launched £500,000 Covid-19 community support fund. EMN-200415-145940001

WPD’s ‘In This Together - Community Matters Fund’ is welcoming applications of up to £10,000 from local authorities, parish/town councils and charities as well as applications for funding of up to £1,000 from community groups.

Phil Swift, WPD’s Chief Executive, said: “In this fast-moving situation, we’re stepping up to help our communities who are impacted by the consequences of the Coronavirus.

“We’re looking forward to hearing from local organisations with ideas of how our financial support could aid them to deliver help at this time, from food drop-offs to befriending services for those living in isolation. We welcome all community ideas.”

More details on how to apply for the ‘In This Together - Community Matters Fund’ can be found at www.westernpower.co.uk/in-this-together

The electricity distribution company, which already supports its most vulnerable customers through a Priority Services Register, is also encouraging those who have been identified as vulnerable and advised to isolate for 12 weeks, to sign up too. The free service enables additional support to be provided in the event of a power cut to those registered. Further details are available on WPD’s website at www.westernpower.co.uk/PSR or by calling WPD on 0800 096 3080.

Mr Swift added: “Our dedicated staff are continuing to work hard to ensure a safe, secure and reliable electricity supply to all customers throughout the Coronavirus outbreak. As an essential service provider, our teams are working hard to keep the lights on and the electricity flowing to homes and the organisations we’re all relying on.

“We are committed to supporting our employees and our communities through this crisis. By launching our fund, as well as continuing our work to support our most vulnerable customers through our Priority Services scheme, we hope we can make a difference to those groups working at the grassroots in our communities.

“To reinforce our commitment to supporting colleagues, customers and the community, WPD has also joined forces with major businesses across the UK by signing up to the C-19 Business Pledge which aims to harness the power of business as a force for good in tackling the Coronavirus pandemic.”