The Co-op Group has opened the latest round of its Local Community Fund to applications.
Launched in 2016, the Local Community Fund has supported over 30,000 local community projects across the UK, with the group now looking for around 4,000 charities and organisations - who play a vital role in the wellbeing of local communities - who have up until 11 June to apply to be considered for the next round of funding. Community groups interested in applying to Co-op’s Local Community Fund, should visit https://causes.coop.co.uk/
Co-op research recently found that eight-in-10 (84%) of local groups have seen a jump in demand for their services through the cost-of-living crisis.
The group is hoping to continue to support projects that make a difference locally, align with Co-op’s vision of co-operating for a fairer world and, with a focus on:
• Bringing people together to access food: Such as community fridges, allotments, and cookery classes
• Helping to improve people’s mental wellbeing: Including sporting activities and, clubs and societies that promote mental well-being and build social connections
• Creation of opportunities for young people to be heard and make a difference: For example, youth groups and forums that work to build confidence, employability and life skills
• Enabling communities to save and restore nature or tackle climate change: With examples including community gardens, tree planting, energy schemes, re-wilding, and sustainable transport
Rebecca Birkbeck, director of community and member participation at Co-op said: “Co-op is committed to making a real and tangible difference in our local communities, while creating significant value for Members through our Membership scheme. Our Local Community Fund is more relevant than ever as the cost-of-living crisis is making it incredibly challenging for many local organisations. We know that our members want to support the communities they live in, and Co-op membership is a powerful way for people to do this, simply by shopping at Co-op - with our funding support enabling local organisations to provide valuable services and support to people at a time when communities need it most.”
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