A funding boost is on the cards for 11 community groups in Bracknell and Wokingham who are set to share an estimated £20,000 from the Co-op.

The launch of a unique new membership scheme on September 21 will see Co-op members receive a 5 per cent reward on purchases of Co-op own-branded products and services, with a further 1 per cent going to local causes.

Those set to benefit include Crowthorne District Guide Association, Home-Start Bracknell Forest and Sandhurst Day Centre.

Members of the Co-op can choose which of these causes they wish to support by logging on to the Co-op’s membership website at www.coop.co.uk/membership . Money will be raised over a six month period.

Family support charity Home-Start was caught up in Bracknell Forest Council's round up of £6 million worth of cuts to adult social care, children's centres and culture earlier this year.

The organisation, based at the Bracknell Open Learning Centre in Rectory Lane, is earmarked to take a 50 per cent hit, losing £30,000 off its budget, £10k over the next year and £20k the following year.

The charity offers free, confidential support, friendship and practical help to parents in Binfield, Bracknell Town, Crowthorne, North Ascot, Sandhurst, Warfield and Winkfield.

Tessa Dove, scheme manager at Home-Start Bracknell Forest, said: "We are honoured to be part of the Co-op’s new scheme and hope local residents will sign up to support us as members of the scheme. Not only will the additional funds help us continue supporting families with young children to deal with the challenges they face, but it will also help us reach more families who may need our help."