Question to the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, with reference to the Government's announcement of 14 June 2021 not to move ahead with Step 4 of the Government's roadmap for the easing of covid-19 restrictions from 21 June 2021, what assessment he has made of potential changes in the levels of demand for support from charities by the public.

Government recognises the huge contribution of charities in the national effort against coronavirus, and the significant challenges that many have experienced.

My department continues to work closely with other government departments, academic institutions and stakeholders to review evidence on the impact of ongoing restrictions on charities in terms of financial resilience and demand for services.

The sector continues to benefit from a multi-billion-pound package of government support, including the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme. The Government has provided a £750 million package for charities and social enterprises, which has helped support organisations providing key services to those most in need. Many organisations have used funding to make changes that will continue to benefit their work over the longer term.