The board have made the following decisions regarding the finances for Branches in 2020 and 2021 

Board Update - February 2021:

In December we advised branches of the situation regarding finances, despite further Government restrictions, the Board still do wish to ease the financial restrictions on Branches. We have, however, had to make slight amendments to some of the planned initiatives. We ask Branches to remain cautious in their approach to spending and only consider essential spending.

• To cover operational expenses, most active Branches will be provided with a single block funding of up to £300. Any Branches that did not record expenditure above £300 in 2019 or 2020, will be provided with funding to cover their highest recorded annual expenditure in either 2019 or 2020. This payment will show on your 2021 first quarter accounts.
• Award and membership proportions will be withheld for the period of 1 January – 30 June.
• Branches may approve expenditure from their Branch reserves from 1 January 2021 for purchases up to the value of £400. Any purchases over £400 will require approval from the RLSS UK finance department.
• All Branches and affiliated clubs will be offered a £100 voucher to spend on RLSS Shop products. This scheme will now be launched when lockdown restrictions are eased.
• Branches will be provided with guidance on approving ‘Hardship Grants’ from nationally held funds, up to the value of £300 per group, to affiliated clubs in their Branch. An initial sum of £20k has been ring-fenced for this initiative. The scheme will now launch on 1 March 2021. We will share guidance to Branches to support the approval of grants in the coming weeks.

The above shall be reviewed in Q2 by the Board in preparation for 01 July 2021. This is subject to change if there are further government restrictions that affect the charities finances.

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In regard to 2020 proportions

• Award proportions will be withheld with the exception of those completed prior to 01 March.
• Membership proportions for 2020 are to be withheld.
• Interest payments to Branches generated from the 'Branch Deposit Account' will be paid as usual.