Worcester community groups and charities in are being invited to apply for a share of £5 million worth of funding.

Co-op’s Local Community Fund has backed almost 40,000 community projects throughout the UK since it began in 2016, dishing out over £100 million in grants.

Co-op is calling for applications from community groups, voluntary organisations and charities.

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This year, the company has a focus on funding projects centred around creating sustainable futures for people and the planet.

Co-op is looking to support projects aiming to support young people looking to fulfil their potential, help the elderly stay engaged or work on enhancing mental wellbeing.

The supermarket is also committed to supporting projects advocating for diversity and inclusivity.

Projects aimed at combating climate change, curbing waste and resource use, or protecting nature, are also eligible to apply.

Rebecca Birkbeck, director of community and member participation at Co-op, said: "As a co-operative, our focus is to deliver increased value for our member-owners and their communities and we know that members really care about supporting local, grassroots projects.

"Through our Local Community Fund, we're able to support local projects and initiatives that make a real difference to people and our planet in communities across the country."

Successful causes will receive a minimum of £1,000, with wider benefits including 95 per cent of causes claiming they felt a stronger connection with their communities as a result of the fund.

Applications are open until Sunday, July 7, and interested parties can visit: https://coop.co.uk/causes for more details.