CHARITIES in Ludlow are being offered free membership of a county business organisation but those interested need to get their applications in quickly as places are limited.

Shropshire Chamber of Commerce is offering free membership packages to charities and not-for-profit organisations thanks to the support of a new ‘Ambassadors’ programme.

The Charity Membership Fund is being delivered in conjunction with the ‘power of three,’ a trio of local organisations, Enterprise Flex-E-Rent, McPhillips and Aico, who have all donated to the fund to support the third sector.

“The past year has been particularly tough for many charities, with the Covid-19 lockdown cutting off vital income streams,” said Mia Carter, Shropshire Chamber’s director of membership.

“So, we felt this was the perfect time to create an opportunity which would make a positive difference to local charities, at a time when it will be of maximum benefit.

“The fund generated by our three ambassadors will give these organisations access to our essential level membership, which includes a host of benefits such as HR, tax, legal services and health and safety support.

“It also entitles them to a wide range of discounted training programmes, and attendance at six Chamber’s network club sessions of their choice.”

To qualify for consideration, the charities and not-for-profit organisations must have a Shropshire postcode, and an annual turnover of less than £1 million. The Charity Membership Fund has a limit on the number of memberships that it can provide and once that limit is reached, the fund will close for applications for membership for the current year.

Any charity or not-for-profit organisations that would like to apply for a membership through this fund, can find further details, criteria and how to apply by visiting www.shropshire-chamber.co.uk/membership/join-us/charity-membership-fund/