Community citizens advice bureau warns of unemployment, requests donations

The Jewish community’s citizens advice bureau Paperweight has asked for donations in the expectation of rising unemployment and a second wave of coronavirus infections.

The charity said it had seen a 63 percent increase in calls during the first 100 days of lockdown, with a “significant proportion” seeking support through the post-bereavement service.

“All of us have witnessed the tragic number of lives lost to coronavirus,” said co-founder Bayla Perrin. “Sadly, we are about to experience a second wave of its devastating impact as many more lose their livelihoods.

“Without extra funding, I am really not sure how we will cope with the surge in requests for help from those who will turn to us to ensure their welfare is secured.”

Paperweight said the end of the Government’s furlough scheme, through which 80 percent of wages were paid from Treasury coffers, “will bring a much greater number of enquiries from those facing unemployment or business failure”, adding that “several hundred Jewish families” could be affected.

The charity, which provides free guidance and support to those facing legal, financial and welfare challenges, said it had launched an emergency appeal for £125,000, ahead of what it predicted would be “a tidal wave” of requests.