The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has launched an emergency loan scheme for cricket clubs and leagues across the country amid the coronavirus outbreak, which could help many Staffordshire outfits.
This scheme consists of a package that will assist in covering any shortfall in maintenance and running costs until “normal recreational activity can be resumed.”
This includes facilities such as utility costs, security and insurance as well as any equipment and rental charges.
Any club affiliated to the County Cricket Board in 2019 or 2020 can apply and this scheme will run for a maximum of 12 months.
Clubs that have a junior section can apply for a loan of up to £5,000 while adult-only teams can borrow up to £3,000.
The ECB has also set up a ‘Return to Cricket Grant Scheme’ that will help struggling clubs who are in exceptional circumstances, such as those where there is a high risk of default in paying back a loan.
This will only be an option for clubs and leagues that are prevented from using the emergency loan scheme and have a turnover of less than £15,000.
Clubs that have a junior section can ask for up to £3,000 while those that are adult-only can claim up to £1,000. Leagues that cater to any age can get up to £2,000.
ECB Director of Participation & Growth, Nick Pryde, said: “This is a very difficult time for our sport and for everyone involved in the recreational game across England and Wales.
“ECB understands the concerns of everyone involved in cricket and we want to be able to support. We hope that these Emergency Support Measures will be beneficial to you and your club.
“We would like to thank you for your efforts in working for your club, for your league and for the game throughout this difficult period, we understand it hasn’t been easy.
“All of us at ECB will continue to listen to the recreational game and work with you to help support and guide. Together we can help our game overcome this challenge.”
For more information on how clubs can apply and what the specific terms and conditions are, click here.
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