AN EMERGENCY hardship fund has been launched to help people in Malmesbury and surrounding villages.

The fund is run by local charity Heals of Malmesbury, and is for those who have little or no income and are facing debt as a result of the current crisis. More than £3,000 has already been raised.

Gavin Grant, Heals Chair of Trustees, said “We know some people in our area are struggling. Many have lost their income as businesses close. There is some Government help, but some people are slipping through the cracks, while others may have to wait for weeks or months for their cash. Many also have no savings.

“Meanwhile, people need to pay essential bills or replace broken household equipment. Our Fund will help them. We don’t want people resorting to payday loans and getting into serious debt. ‎They borrowed hundreds of pounds for important reasons, but now owe thousands.

“The initial response has been fantastic, but we know we will need a lot more money to help people who have been hard hit in our area get through this crisis."

Donations can be made online at Local Giving: https://localgiving.org/appeal/malmesburyhardshipfund/