The Jewish Leadership Council has teamed up with business charity Work Avenue to set up a fund to help those across the community who are suffering financially amid the coronavirus lockdown.

The fund is designed to specifically assist those who are ineligible for Government support or who face delays accessing it.

The fund has launched with almost £300,000 and a commitment to provide more money if needed, thanks to the generosity of philanthropists.

The contributors to this fund include the Charles Wolfson Charitable Trust, The Gerald and Gail Ronson Family Foundation, The Max Barney Foundation, The Wohl Legacy, Rothschild Foundation Hanadiv Europe, Genesis Philanthropy Group, The Bloom Foundation, The Goldstein Family and Investream Charitable Trust.

JLC Chair Jonathan Goldstein said: "In a time of great uncertainty and discomfort, I am proud the JLC is coordinating and contributing to the many ways our community is striving to alleviate some of the challenges all across our community are facing.

"The world as we know it has changed. What has not changed are the acts of chesed that we so often see amongst our wonderful community.

"Small acts of kindness, often between strangers, have transformational power. 

"Whether it being phoning someone just to check in, helping with shopping or countless other examples."

The JLC said it was "well placed to connect, coordinate and add capacity to efforts across many sectors and parts of the UK". 

Work Avenue has "the experience and expertise to administer this fund open to everyone in the community whose employment or earnings have been directly affected by COVID-19", it said..

Mark Morris, Chair of Work Avenue and Trustee of the JLC said: "Through no fault of their own many people are facing financial difficulties during  this crisis. Whilst the Government has announced measures and packages of support, some will fall through the gaps or face delays in accessing those funds.

"I am proud that Work Avenue is working with the JLC to provide immediate assistance so that these individuals and their families can cover essential expenses in the coming months."

Click here for more information and to apply.