SWINDON charities and community groups could receive funding for big projects.

The newly-rebranded Tesco Community Grants scheme will award money to good causes who focus on helping children and families access the food and support they need.

Eligible projects will include breakfast or holiday lunch clubs, food banks, youth clubs or schools.

From July, community groups in Swindon will be selected to receive votes from the public to decide which project receives the most funding.

Grant pots of £500, £1,000 and £1,500 will be available for the shortlisted projects. Tesco customers will be able to choose which one receives the most funding by voting in store every time they shop.

In the last few years, the scheme has helped borough-based projects like Advocacy After Fatal Domestic Abuse, which used the money to support its essential work during the lockdowns.

Tesco Community Grant manager Keith Jackson said: "Over the years, we’ve been delighted to have been able to support so many charities, community groups and organisations from every corner of the UK.

"The help and support they provide to families and children is now more important than ever.

“We’re encouraging groups in Swindon to apply for funding as we hope to see the fantastic community work they provide to continue long into the future.”

The scheme, in partnership with the Groundwork charity, will support thousands of community projects and good causes across the UK.

It is open to registered charities and not-for-profit organisations. Tesco customers or colleagues can nominate a cause that they’d like to see supported.

Groundwork's UK chief executive Graham Duxbury said: “The last year has been extremely difficult for everyone, and that includes community groups and charities who will have been hit particularly hard by the pandemic.

"Many groups have seen a surge in demand for their services while volunteer numbers decrease, which has caused mounting pressure.

“We’re delighted to be working with Tesco to provide these much-needed funds, which will help to support local communities as we recover from the pandemic.”

To apply,visit tescocommunitygrants.org.uk