Community groups have received a share of more than £17,788 in funding from the Co-op's Local Community Fund.

The money, which is raised by Co-op members choosing to support local causes through the Co-op Membership App, will help the groups make a difference in their communities.

Among the successful groups are the 9th Bracknell (South Hill) Scout Group, who received £2,441, and the Ascot and Bracknell Unit of St John Ambulance, who were awarded £3,676.

The Co-op's Local Community Fund has shared more than £58 million with more than 20,500 community groups across the UK since 2020.

This financial support is contributing to the creation of strong and resilient communities.

Rebecca Birkbeck, director of community and member participation at the Co-op, said: "Co-op is a different way of doing business - and as a business owned by you, we are committed to doing right by you and your community.

Rebecca BirkbeckRebecca Birkbeck (Image: Co-Op)

"Co-op members have a say on where they would like to see the support given in order to make a difference locally, and our Local Community Fund works to promote healthy, strong and viable communities."

The benefits of the support go beyond the financial aid, as 95 per cent of the groups have said that they feel more connected with their community as a result of their participation in the Co-op's Local Community Fund.

Participation in the scheme has also helped to raise the groups' profiles locally.

Ms Birkbeck added: "We are delighted that as a direct result of our members shopping with us, causes in towns, villages and cities across the UK will be celebrating receiving critical funding.

"We know things are increasingly tough for communities - this funding will help them with delivering the services and support that their community needs and create a real and tangible difference to local lives."

The Co-op is one of the world's largest consumer-owned co-operatives, and its members play a key role in its governance.

The members own the business and have a say in how it is run.

The Co-op's aim is to create social, economic and ownership value for its membership, including member-only price savings across everyday essentials, and personalised offers via the Co-op Membership App.

The funding is boosted through the convenience retailer's 'Winners Share It All' prize draw, which offers 10 chances each month to win £5,000 for causes and £500 for Co-op members.