TRADE union Unison, has launched a special fund to help members in financial difficulty due to the ongoing covid crisis.

Julie Tudor, Bolton UNISON Branch Welfare officer said: “I am pleased to announce that Unison's welfare charity, There for You has reopened its covid-19 response fund this week. It will offer eligible members much needed financial help.

"Grants of up to £500 will be available to help members whose household incomes have been affected, a criteria for applications applies.

"We know that a lot of our members are struggling at the moment so I urge eligible members to come forward and seek support”

Julie added:“Unison has members working in a variety of roles as key workers, ranging from care workers to cleaners and social workers to refuse collectors, but all public service workers have been directly affected during this pandemic.

"Although our members work right across public services, many have partners working in other key sectors of the economy and we know that lots of families have been hit really hard financially this year. This support comes at a critical time for many people."

Support is available for members who are furloughed, shielding, off sick, those whose hours have been reduced or have lost their jobs due to covid.

Members have to meet certain criteria for support.

Applications can be made online via Unison’s national website: https://www.unison.org.uk/get-help/services-support/there-for-you Further information is available via Bolton Unison’s website:

https://boltonlocalgovernment.unison.site/2020/11/16/financial-help-for-members-during-covid-19/