COMMUNITY groups in Keighley took part in a study which reveals that a quarter of local charities across the UK are fearing for their survival.

The Co-op put a series of in-depth questions to 8,000 organisations, including the 110 causes in and around Keighley that have benefitted from its community fund since the pot of money was launched in 2016.

One in four of those surveyed said they are either worried or very worried about the future of their organisation.

Thirty per cent had seen public funding reduced, 44 per cent were concerned about rising costs and 56 per cent said they were witnessing a growing demand for their services which was not being matched by increased funding or resources.

Whilst on average respondents had seen a 43 per cent increase in volunteers, many said it was still not enough to cope with demand.

Publication of the findings coincides with the start of a campaign by the Co-op to encourage its members, from whom one per cent of what they spend on own-brand products goes to local causes, to select organisations they wish to support.

Since the membership scheme was launched, more than £20 million has been given to good causes.

But in West Yorkshire, there is still just under £217,000 waiting to be allocated.

Rebecca Birkbeck, for the Co-op, said: "With many groups finding themselves underfunded and under-resourced, it is increasingly important that we all support the crucial work of community organisations and local charities.

"We believe now, more than ever, that connecting local people and causes to enable greater co-operation is the key ingredient to building stronger communities.

"The Co-op's local community fund is an example of how business can help to drive these connections and offers our 4.6 million members the chance to decide which local organisations they would like to support."

For more details, visit coop.co.uk/local-community-fund.