GROUPS received thousands of pounds from Co-op to help them support the community.

More than £11,000 have been donated through the supermarket’s carrier bag good cause fund including £4,391 to SMASH Youth Project in Pinehurst to help it offer more guidance and mentoring to young vulnerable people.

CEO at SMASH Helen Fisher said: “The young people in Swindon that seek our help have often been let down by adults in the past and are simply looking for someone to listen to them.

“Our mentors provide a safe haven for the youngsters and give them an opportunity to voice how they feel without being judged.

“Our aim is to change the lives of young people and give them the attention, encouragement and support they need and deserve.

“As a charity we rely on the support of others, and Co-op Midcounties’ generous donation will enable us to reach out to even more people in need of our support in Swindon.”

Co-op Midcounties donated £4,391 to homelessness charity Big Breakfast Plus and a further £1,374 to help Highworth Town Football Club.

The donations form part of the Society’s Regional Communities strategy, which sees Midcounties members and colleagues come together to provide impactful and sustainable support for local community groups through volunteering and fundraising initiatives.

Leadership team ambassador in Swindon Dean Mason said:”We hope our donations will help to make a difference to the lives of many.

"We look forward to continuing to help the groups expand their provisions and reach out to even more people through further fundraising and volunteering activities in the future.”