A CHARITY has been awarded a £500 grant from Tesco to support refugees and asylum seekers in Swindon.

The supermarket is helping local charities and community groups across the UK as part of a £2m scheme.

The Harbour project has up to 80 visitors each weekday to its drop-in service for advice, practical help and a warm, safe space to meet. It runs a range of classes, from English to maths to prepare refugees and asylum seekers for entering the workplace.

And the charity provides free counselling sessions and wellbeing support, alongside cultural trips and activities.

But since the coronavirus pandemic began, it has been unable to offer its usual range of support face-to-face and has been helping people online and by telephone.

CEO of the Harbour Project Claire Garrett, said: “We strive to reduce social isolation, improve health and increase self-esteem for the people we support, some of whom are increasingly vulnerable at this difficult time.

“We have been able to deliver food parcels these individuals thanks to local fundraising and donations from local groups and individuals, alongside the hard work of our staff and volunteers.

“The feedback has been heart-warming, with people grateful for the food but also for the human connection that delivery from a friendly face brings, despite social distancing being in place.

“We would like to thank Tesco for supporting us to carry on our work.”