GroceryAid said it has distributed £4.25 million in financial assistance in 2019-20.
The industry charity’s annual Impact Report revealed that more colleagues have been supported over the year, with over 17,000 colleagues including those from convenience stores receiving emotional, practical and financial support.
Nearly three fourths (73%) of them were of working age, the report, released digitally for the first time, added.
The £4.25 million in financial assistance helped 3,183 colleagues. A total of 13,871 colleagues availed the emotional and practical support offered through the 24/7 helpline services, which represented a 12 per cent increase from the previous year.
“The last year saw GroceryAid support more colleagues than ever before and we take great pride in that achievement,” commented Charles Wilson, GroceryAid president.
“As we look forward, Covid-19 has had a huge impact on the nation and on our trade. We expect rising demand for our services, and we are geared up to help colleagues who need assistance from GroceryAid.”
GroceryAid said employers remain the top referrer to the charity for colleagues in need with the main reason for applications being financial hardship triggered by illness.
The charity has raised £1.5 million in COVID-19 fund, which remains open for applications.
The GroceryAid Helpline is available 24/7, 365 days a year: 08088 021 122
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