Arbroath area causes in line for Co-op's support

Members of PSYV Arbroath volunteer in a number of capacities across the local community.

Thanks to Co-op members, more than £84 million has been raised for over 25,000 causes since 2016, simply by choosing Co-op branded products and services.

Members are encouraged to pick a local cause to support each year in their community that are supporting access to food, mental well-being support or opportunities for young people, helping to build stronger, more resilient communities across the UK.

In Arbroath, organisations including Skilz Academy, Angus Young Carers and PSYV Arbroath (Police Scotland Youth Volunteers) are set to receive grants to help them deliver local projects in the community.

Highlighting the importance of Co-op’s Local Community Fund, research from the Charity Commission Covid-19 survey shows that 62 per cent of charities anticipate a threat to their financial position over the next 12 months, with 34 per cent expecting to generate less revenue from fundraising and donations.

Rebecca Birkbeck, director of community and membership at the Co-op, said: “We know that this year is going to be another incredibly challenging year for local causes and communities. With the cost of living rising dramatically already this year, charities are likely to bear the brunt of people being more conscious about their spending.

“Our members focus their support on mental well-being, access to food and providing opportunities for young people because we know all of these make a huge contribution to fairer, more resilient and happier communities. We are delighted to welcome a new round of causes to our Local Community Fund, providing much-needed support for people in their local communities and making the world a fairer place.”

In November, it was announced that nine causes had received £24,942 from the Local Community Fund taking the Arbroath total since 2016 to £215,898.

Rebecca added: “The more members that select a local cause, the more funding they receive. By selecting a cause, you can make a real difference in your community.”

For more, visit www.coop.co.uk/membership.