Rotary clubs join forces to help those seeking work as financial fallout from Covid continues

Rotarians in Godalming have set up a support fund to help people whose finances have been adversely impacted by Covid-19.

The town's two Rotary clubs, together with Citizens Advice Waverley, have launched a new fund to ensure financial support and advice is available to all those in need, across the borough of Waverley.

Rotary's Waverley Covid Support Fund has been set up due to fears that job losses and economic hardship are likely to continue to affect the borough, long after the immediate health impact of the pandemic has waned. Several organisations in Waverley currently offer support to those living in particular areas: the new fund will work together with those to ensure consistent access to financial support for everyone, meaning no families or individuals fall through cracks. The initial funding partners are Godalming Town Council, the two Rotary Clubs of Godalming, Rotary International and the Go Godalming Association. They have also agreed to co-operate with the Farnham Coronavirus Support Fund, Cranleigh Community Fund, Cranleigh and District Lions Club, Busbridge and Hambledon Church Family Support Fund and the Henry Smith (Godalming) Charity. As well as providing financial support, the fund will work closely with Citizens Advice Waverley, which will give tailored, practical help and advice so that people can make the best use of the financial support provided. To find out more visit the support fund's website. To donate, visit the JustGiving page. Chris Bedford, President of the Rotary Club of Godalming Woolsack, said: "We will do whatever we can to help meet such needs, no doubt including some people who might never have dreamed of seeking support in this way." Liz Wheatley, President of the Rotary Club of Godalming, added: "Having experienced redundancy, I appreciate how scary it can be, and am delighted that our clubs have got together on this very worthwhile project, which could make all the difference to some of our residents." The scheme has also won the backing of the Lord Lieutenant of Surrey, Michael More-Molyneux, who said: "Well done in organising this initiative, which is going to be such a support to so many living in the local area over the coming months, and beyond."