Community groups in Caithness invited to apply for Co-op funding support

Applications have opened for local community groups and charities to apply for funding and support from Co-op’s Local Community Fund.

Co-op’s Local Community Fund has supported over 30,000 local community projects across the UK since its launch in 2016, and charities and organisations which play a vital role in the wellbeing of communities can apply up until June 11 to be considered for the next round of funding.

Co-op is looking to continue to support projects that have an impact and make a difference locally 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, rewilding, 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.”

Community groups interested in applying to Co-op’s Local Community Fund can find out more here

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