OVER £400k has been approved to support people facing difficulties because of the pandemic in Hampshire.

A total of £459,870 in grant funding has been allocated to the voluntary and community sector across the county to help support vulnerable people.

The grant is part of a £480m Contain Outbreak Management Fund given to local authorities by the Department of Health and Social Care to help reduce the spread of coronavirus and support local economies and public health.

Councillor Andrew Joy, Hampshire County Council’s Executive Member for Communities, Partnerships and External Affairs, said he is "delighted" that the money has been donated to help the "important" work of the Voluntary Sector Network.

"The voluntary sector is playing a vital role in supporting people across the county who are disproportionately impacted by COVID-19.

"This contribution ensures that the services residents rely on - to those who may be shielding or struggling with mental health issues - will remain available throughout the coming months."

Part of the grant will be used to employ community development workers for each district as well as recruit extra volunteers to help with tasks such as shopping and collecting prescriptions or offer a befriending service.

The portion of funding for mental health and wellbeing services and digital inclusion will ensure residents can access the support needed during periods of restrictions.

Tim Houghton, Chief Executive at Community First, said: “Hampshire's voluntary sector has never been more needed.

"We've seen an amazing response to the pandemic with tens of thousands of local residents offering time and help as volunteers throughout the past year.

"This funding will enable us to sustain this effort as we collectively continue to manage and control the outbreak, whilst also understanding and responding to the impact that this is having on our vital voluntary sector.”