THE Co-op Local Community Fund has helped 4,500 local causes up and down the country.

Girlguiding West Thurrock have definitely felt the benefit of this fund and contributions from the Co-op have helped to keep the groups in touch with each other through the coronavirus pandemic and a very difficult year.

Christine Skinner, Commissioner of Girlguiding for South Essex Region says support from Co-op Members has helped 365 girls across Tilbury, Chadwell St. Mary, South Ockendon, Grays, Little Thurrock, North Stifford, Stifford Clays and West Thurrock enjoy all the benefits of being involved with Girlguiding.

Chris says: "Girls take what they learn while guiding with them as they grow up. Everything from working in a team, to taking the lead, to speaking out on issues they care about.

"The money from the Co-op has helped us to establish our girl-led peer education programme, training our peer educators to talk about subjects like body confidence, healthy relationships and other issues facing young women. We continue to focus on championing the voices of girls, establishing our youth panel and working to create the change that the girls want to see.

"Being involved with Girlguiding helps them develop the skills and confidence to become the young women they want to be. And to make a difference to the world around them."

"The staff at the Co-op, in particular Member Pioneer Clair Mason at Sockets Heath, have been amazing supporters. They helped promote our cause in store and fundraised for us, it was fantastic."

How does Payout work?

When Co-op Members buy selected Co-op branded products and services,2p for every pound spent is split between community organisations and local causes.

And it soon adds up, because these Members have helped raise £15 million for 4,500 causes this year.

From supporting projects that improve access to food and mental wellbeing, to education and employment opportunities for young people, the Local Community Fund has never been so vital.

Girlguiding West Thurrock is just a great example of a community group that have been helped by the fund.

Find out more about Girlguiding West Thurrock click here.

And to find out more about Co-op Membership, click here.