Swadlincote's Bus Park Community Hub and Café has been awarded as part of a Central England Co-op fund.

Ten charities and good causes have shared £25,000 in a revamped Community Dividend Fund aimed at providing quick funding boosts to help those impacted by the Coronavirus outbreak.

And Market Street-based Bus Stop has received a payout to continue its meals on wheels service to help 55 vulnerable and elderly people in Swadlincote and the surrounding area.

Normally, grants from the fund are handed out four times a year to a wide range of organisations but, during the coming months, it has been decided to hand grants out on a monthly basis to support those suffering financial hardship due to the pandemic and others looking to step in to help those affected.

All applicants, regardless of their success, are all given Co-op vouchers to help support their great work in the community.

Jim Watts, Society Secretary, said: "In response to the current crisis, we made some changes to our Community Dividend Fund scheme to provide immediate financial support for local good causes, community groups and charities who are responding to some of the most worrying impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Community Dividend Fund grants showcase how by being a member and shopping at your local Central England Co-op store allows us as a Society to continue to invest and fund vital projects in the area – especially during uncertain times like these.

"We are delighted to have been able to support these amazing causes and help them make a difference in our communities."

To apply, members will need: name, address, membership number, organisation type, organisation bank account or constitution and to explain what the group does, how the grant will be spent and the specific impact it will have related to COVID-19.

People can find out the full criteria and how to apply for funding by clicking HERE.