Financial wellbeing charities to get extra boost

Financial wellbeing charities and groups tackling issues like debt management will benefit from thousands of pounds in a fundraising campaign by Lincolnshire Co-op.

Anyone can face money difficulties, and this can have a knock-on effect on health and wellbeing. To help address this and to increase awareness Lincolnshire Co-op is raising money for groups that offer support to those facing financial hardship and need advice.

Several charities including Lincolnshire Credit Union, local Citizens Advice branches, Lincs2Advice, Acts Trust Debt Advice and more will be supported through the Society’s Community Champions scheme from now until March.

Lincolnshire Co-op’s Community and Education Co-ordinator Ben James said: “It could be by tackling issues like debt and payday loans, encouraging safe borrowing or helping people access the money they’re entitled to – these groups help in all sorts of ways.”

According to Citizens Advice 22% of households in the UK ‘constantly struggle’ to keep up with bills and payments.

“Debt and financial worry can affect anyone and the money advice and support services we’re raising funds for are way to help worried families,” added Ben.

“They are there when times get tough and can offer advice, expertise and affordable services.

“We hope that fundraising together we can recognise the work these groups do and enable them to help more people.”

A donation will also be made every time a member shops in Lincolnshire Co-op stores using their dividend card. And colleague fundraising and proceeds from the carrier bag levy will go into the pot too.

Lincolnshire Financial Inclusion Partnership Chair Katy Roberts, said: “I am delighted that Lincolnshire Co-op will be fundraising for charities and groups across Greater Lincolnshire that help people with their financial wellbeing.

“Not only will this funding support organisations financially, we hope that by raising the profile of the work they do this will break down some of the stigmas around addressing money issues.

“The nominated Community Champions help people to deal with debt, claim the money that they are entitled to, borrow safely and start to save. With the support of Lincolnshire Co-op more resources will be available to help those most at need.”

Lincolnshire Co-op food stores held a Christmas Event Day on Saturday 1^st December. Colleagues wore festive jumpers and held fundraising activities to launch the appeal.

More funds will come from Lincolnshire Co-op outlets through the Big Co-op Raffle from now until 5^th January 2018. Tickets are £1 and there’s big prizes on offer including Lincoln City FC VIP tickets, a lemur experience at Lincolnshire Wildlife Park, an Apple iPad 9.7 and more. Last year more than £7,000 was raised from the raffle.