The Manx Solidarity Fund [MSF] has so far delivered almost as many grants in 2021 as it did for the entirety of last year.

Set up last March shortly after the first lockdown, the charitable trust issues grants to individuals, businesses and organisations that have been adversely impacted by the pandemic.

So far this year, it has provided close to £250,000 in grants, and across both the January and ongoing lockdown periods has seen a 50% increase in grant applications compared to its operations in 2020.

This £250,000 from 2021 represents the majority of the more than £450,000 which the fund has provided in total since its inception.

Though it says it has seen a ’continuous’ stream of applications since its founding, it highlights that the fund has seen a ’substantial’ increase in applications during the recent lockdowns.

It added that while it has maintained the same operating practices, volunteers have had to meet more regularly to process the volume of applications in an efficient manner.

The MSF said that the majority of its applications had come from individuals, people who it says ’through no fault of their own, are in need of financial support during this turbulent time.’

Speaking about the ongoing pressures on business moving forward this year, it stated: ’While some sections of the economy have readjusted, those involved with the MSF are acutely aware that the ongoing border restrictions are having a devastating effect on businesses linked to the visitor economy.

’Even with government support, many businesses and individuals will be under extreme financial pressure with the 2021 summer season unlikely to happen as it stands.’

If a business within the tourism or hospitality sector is currently experiencing serious pressures on their finances or on their ability to retain staff as a direct result of the pandemic, the MSF may be a source of help. Applications can be made to www.manxsolidarityfund.com/apply