Twelve groups in Ayr and the surrounding areas have received almost £18,000 in funding from the Co-operative Group.

Thanks to Co-op members, the groups are celebrating after receiving funding support from Co-op’s Local Community Fund.  

A total of £17,575.66 is being shared in Ayr and surrounding areas by 12 groups, including Aoife's Sensory Bus, who have received £1,901.74; South Ayrshire Women's Aid, who were awarded £2,485.53; and Dunaskin Doon Band, who benefited to the tune of £1,370.12.   

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Other beneficiaries in the Ayr and Doon Valley areas include Troon Cancer Care, Craigmark Burntonians FC, Carrick Rugby Club, Give a Dog a Bone, Youth Zone at the Carrick Centre, Muirhead Tenants and Residents Association, and Cairn and Gardenrose Primary Schools.

Rebecca Birkbeck, director of community and member participation at Co-op, said: “We’re really proud of our Local Community Fund and the impact it’s had supporting thousands of local causes across the UK.

"These groups deliver incredible grassroot projects, enabling them to provide important services, support and activities for their diverse communities.”

Co-op’s Local Community Fund supports local causes and community projects that have an impact and made a difference locally, while aligning with Co-op’s values, which include a focus on:    

  • Bringing people together to access food: Such as community fridges, allotments, and cookery classes    
  • Helping to improve mental wellbeing: Including sporting activities and, clubs and societies that 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, life, and employability skills    
  • Enabling communities to save and restore nature or tackle climate change: Including community gardens, tree planting, energy schemes, re-wilding, and sustainable transport