Financial well-being charities across the Lincolnshire area will receive support from a fundraising campaign run by the Lincolnshire Co-operative.
The co-op will be raising money for groups that offer support and advice to those facing financial difficulties. Through its Community Champions scheme, the society will be backing Lincolnshire Credit Union as well as several charities, including local Citizens Advice branches, Lincs2Advice and Acts Trust Debt Advice.
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.
This year alone, Lincolnshire Citizens Advice helped over 4,800 clients on debt issues advising on £7.9m worth of debt. Across the UK the charity supported one person every three minutes with bailiff issues.
“Debt and financial worry can affect anyone and the money advice and support services we are raising funds for are way to help worried families,” added Mr James.
“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.”
Lincolnshire Financial Inclusion Partnership chair Katy Roberts added: “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.”
The fundraising campaign was officially launched on 1 December with a special Christmas Event Day for which colleagues wore festive jumpers and held fundraising activities.
Donations will also be made every time members use their dividend card at check-out. Colleague fundraising and proceeds from the carrier bag levy will also go towards the cause. On 5 January the co-op is hosting a Big Co-op Raffle, an event that raised £7,000 last year.
