A business group set up in the North East to help companies affected by the pandemic has broadened its scope to help firms hit by the new Omicron variant.
The Open North Foundation has made grants to around 20 companies, as well as offering other forms of support, since being set up by a group of business figures in the region last year.
The foundation has been supported with donations from businesses and other organisations, raising tens of thousands of pounds that has so far been used to help businesses that want to grow as part of the recovery from the pandemic.
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But the rise of the new coronavirus variant and its impact on some businesses has led the organisation to say it will offer help to businesses affected by the Government’s Plan B restrictions.
Hospitality businesses in particular have seen large numbers of cancellations in recent days after Government scientists advised people to limit social contact in the run-up to Christmas.
A number of business groups have called for some form of Government help for affected firms.
Open North Foundation chair Richard Swart said: “We were set up as a unique business-led response to help firms damaged by Covid. It makes sense with the worsening of the situation, to now step up with this change of focus. Although the grants and services are free, they are subject to resources and availability.
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“We have a duty of care to make sure the best possible judgments are made to use our donors money for the intended purposes. Applicants can apply via our website www.opennorthfoundation.co.uk. Due diligence is applied by our grant application committee. They will need to demonstrate clear, negative impact, with evidence and also how they can benefit from the targeted free financial assistance and services we offer.”
The Open North Foundation committee will meet early next year to consider all applications on their merits.
Mr Swart added: “We are delighted to have reached our target of 20 successful applications before Christmas. We have resources for many more and each will be judged on their merits.
“We will continue to do all we can to maximise the positive difference we are making to help the North East through this dreadful period of our lives and we thank all who have supported us so generously to make it possible.”
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