Pro Europe campaigners say cost of Brexit will be massive for third sector.

Leaving the European Union (EU) could cost UK charities more than £200 million a year.

Campaign group Britain Stronger in Europe – the official campaign to remain in the EU – has produced new research which it says demonstrates how much the third sector could stand to lose from so-called Brexit.

It claims 249 different UK charities benefitted from over £217m in funding from the EU in 2014 and that would be put at risk if there’s a “leave” majority in the 23 June in-out referendum, which Prime Minister David Cameron has called.

TFN revealed this week that Scotland’s third sector could lose at least £20m a year from Brexit.

Our charities benefit hugely from being part of the European Union

Green MP Caroline Lucas, Britain Stronger in Europe board member, said: “A huge number of charities in Britain benefit every year from much needed funding from the European Union. The money they receive helps people in need, both in Britain and across the world.

“Outside of the EU, there is absolutely no guarantee that this vital contribution to British charitable work could or would be continued.”

Anna Turley, shadow cabinet office minister, said: “Britain has a fantastic, thriving charity sector which is recognised around the world for the great work it does saving and changing lives here and abroad.

“This great work is recognised and supported by our partners in Europe and our charities benefit hugely from being part of the European Union.”

Sir Stephen Bubb, chair of Social Investment Business, added: “British charities benefit hugely from our membership of the EU.

“Not only does it help us work with partners across the continent, fostering civil society, but some of Britain’s best known charities receive significant funding to carry out their vital work.”

What are your thoughts on Britain leaving the EU? What implications could this have for the third sector? Take our poll: Should we stay or should we go?