GLASGOW CO-OP stores are joining forces to encourage support and funding for local groups across Glasgow in their annual fundraising fortnight.

An open online forum for charities and community organisations called 'Local Recovery' will be held today at 4pm, hosted by Labour and Co-operative Party Councillor Stephen Curran.

The fundraising fortnight, which will finish on the 5th of July, focuses on celebrating the work of member-owned and community-focused businesses.

Fiona Herriot, Co-op Member Pioneer Co-ordinator for Glasgow West, Renfrewshire and East Renfrewshire and Yvonne Goodfellow, Scotmid Co-operative Membership and Community Manager for West Region will be speaking at the meeting.

Councillor Curran said: “I’m delighted that both Scotmid and the Co-op Group are keen to join us, sharing news of co-operative support and funding for local charities and community groups in our city.”

“The meeting is open to anyone interested in finding out more about the co-operative support and funding offered by Scotmid and the Co-op.

“There are Scotmid and Co-op stores all over Glasgow and the staff are proven key workers, making a huge contribution to helping us all through the challenging times we have faced due to coronavirus restrictions.”

“It’s great to see both co-operative businesses linking with those voluntary groups and local charities also making an impact in all our communities, supporting those most in need.”

“Many Co-op and Scotmid stores have already been linking with foodbanks and other local projects to support those struggling to make ends meet, while helping to reduce each shop’s own food waste.”

“Local groups and co-operatives will continue to provide key workers and vital support through the next phase of recovery from Covid-19.

"This Co-operatives Fortnight the message is ‘let's build something better together’ which so many of us want to see through a just and green recovery in the months and years ahead.

"This event helps Co-Op businesses and local groups connect and make even more of a difference in communities across Glasgow.”