Ageas has made a contribution to help vulnerable people and charities affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.

The company, one of the largest general insurers in the UK, is one of the contributors to The Covid-19 Support Fund, announced by the UK insurance and long-term savings industry today (May 18).

The fund aims to raise £100 million and will comprise voluntary contributions from firms within the sector.

The key aim is provide immediate relief to charities affected by Covid-19, as well as a longer-term programme of support for people, communities, and issues where there is the greatest need, including:

  • Community based charities that are under unprecedented strain
  • Charities supporting the most vulnerable – in particular, families and children living in greatest poverty and older people in isolation
  • Initiatives to promote wellbeing and mental health across society

Andy Watson, CEO at Ageas, said: We recognise the devastating impact the outbreak has had on people and communities across UK and the world. We are striving to support in every way we can and we’re proud to be a contributor to this important new fund.

Ageas has been working hard to support customers, employees and the wider public since the pandemic hit the UK. Its initiatives to date include:

  • Extending free breakdown cover to direct customers who work for the NHS
  • Allowing motor insurance customers who are helping their community by volunteering to deliver food or medicines to extend their cover for these activities at no cost
  • Reducing pricing of motor insurance policies to reflect the current situation
  • Providing additional support to customers facing financial challenges as a result of the pandemic

Despite the logistical challenges social distancing has brought, and many people now working from home, Ageas’ employees have worked hard to ensure they’re still able to support customers during their time of need.

Staff are continuing to help with everything from getting cars fixed after an accident, to replacing important household items that have been damaged during lockdown.

The Covid-19 Support Fund launched today (May 18) is in partnership with the Charities Aid Foundation, and a network of partners, including the National Emergencies Trust.

It is supported by members of the ABI (Association of British Insurers), The British Insurance Brokers’ Association (BIBA), Lloyd’s, and The London Market Group (LMG).

Sir John Low, Chief Executive of the Charities Aid Foundation (CAF), said: Getting these vital funds quickly and safely into the hands of the many charities at the heart of our communities is central to CAF’s mission and we are proud to be able to work alongside those in the insurance and long-term savings industries to make this happen.  We know it will make a huge difference to many people in need of support at this time.

Lord Dannatt, Chairman of the National Emergencies Trust, said: Since the launch of our coronavirus appeal, generous pledges have meant we have been able to distribute more than £30m and make more than 4,000 grants to charities across the UK. We are hugely appreciative of the support from the insurance and long-term savings community and will work to ensure the funds raised are quickly distributed to those who are most in need.