The Cirencester branch of Coventry Building Society has chosen The Churn Project as its community partner, helping to raise much-needed funds for the local charity to continue its invaluable work.

The funds will help the charity in the immediate term, providing resources to help older and vulnerable people avoid scams and financial fraud.

Branch community champion Georgia Scawn approached the charity, which supports vulnerable people across the community in Cirencester and nearby villages, after one of her colleagues began volunteering at The Churn’s Sunday Tea Club.

Georgia said: “Here at the Coventry we are very passionate about helping out our community as much as we can.

"Knowing something of what The Churn Project does for families, the elderly and everyone in between, we all agreed that this is something we would love to be a part of.”

The Churn Project’s fundraising manager, Caroline Hukins, is thrilled that the charity will benefit from the support and expertise of the local team of a hugely respected national organisation.

“We are very excited about the potential for this partnership and look forward to working with Georgia and her colleagues in Cirencester," said Caroline.

"As well as supporting our fundraising and publicity, the Coventry team are ideally placed to help our Churn clients to avoid threats posed by scams and financial fraud.

"Sadly, we know that incidents have increased during the pandemic, as more people are having to manage their money in unfamiliar ways, and without their usual support.

"We know it is a source of anxiety for many of our older and vulnerable service users, and it’s great that the Coventry Building Society can help.”

Fundraising will also be a big part of the Coventry’s commitment to The Churn.

Branch staff in Cirencester are already brainstorming ideas for a fundraising campaign to be launched shortly.