Bucks community groups being boosted by new funding
It has been set up the Co-op.
Last updated 19th Oct 2020
Community groups in Bucks are being boosted by new funding.
When Co-op members buy Co-op's selected branded products and services, 2p for every pound spent goes to community causes.
It is to continue the work of The Co-op Local Community Fund, which supports grassroots local causes across the nation.
Some of the places in Buckinghamshire already benefiting from the fund include:
The additional support comes after new research from the Co-op found a third (33 per cent) of adults have noticed an increase in community spirit in their local area since the coronavirus pandemic began.
According to the findings, almost three in ten (29 per cent) are now more aware of social inequalities and the various problems facing the vulnerable – food poverty (35 per cent), unemployment (49 per cent), mental health (56 per cent) and youth inequality (25 per cent) are thought to be the biggest issues, many of which are supported by local initiatives.
However, during a time where people need help the most, 40 per cent feel that services aiding local communities, such as mental health support and community centres, have worsened in the last six months.
Despite some getting involved to support these initiatives, by regularly donating time (14 per cent) or money (27 per cent) to local causes, less than half were able to convert their intention to help into action.
This has led to 41 per cent feeling that businesses operating in their community should make financial donations, such as by paying back a portion of profits, and invest time to support local charities.
Rebecca Birkbeck, director of community and shared value at Co-op, said:
"The other part of the survey showed people really want to actually do something about this.
"What we're offering is a really easy, straightforward way to do something.
"Businesses are a really important part of their local community.
"We see our stores as important community hubs.
"During lockdown, for many, many people, that was the only time they saw people, when they went to their local store."