Impact Evaluation of the Coronavirus Community Support Fund: Final Report

Introduction

This report evaluates the impact of the Coronavirus Community Support Fund (CCSF) during the COVID-19 crisis. It assesses how the funding was used and what it enabled for organisations, volunteers, people and communities.

It’s intended for policymakers, funders and voluntary sector organisations working in crisis response.

Findings

The research found that CCSF funding helped organisations continue operating during the pandemic and deliver essential support to people disproportionately affected by COVID-19.

Grant holders used funds to sustain services, adapt provision, and reach vulnerable groups. The evaluation also found that CCSF contributed to widespread positive outcomes for beneficiaries, including improved mental health and wellbeing, reduced loneliness, and increased social contact. 

Volunteers played a vital role, contributing capacity and themselves benefiting from increased community connection. Additional benefits included strengthened organisational resilience, enhanced partnership working and the ability to meet basic needs quickly during crisis conditions.