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Tesco launches volunteer e-gift card to help vulnerable

Paloma Kubiak
Written By:
Paloma Kubiak
Posted:
Updated:
14/05/2020

Tesco has launched a special e-gift card for elderly, vulnerable and self-isolating customers who want to pay for groceries delivered by volunteers, friends or other family members.

Those unable to get to shops can buy a volunteer e-gift card online at Tesco (£5 to £150) which can then be emailed directly to someone who can buy essentials on their behalf.

As part of the contact-free scheme, customers can also check the balance of the gift card over the phone to track their grocery spending.

They will also receive a copy of their e-gift card allowing them to hold on to the remaining balance once shopping has been delivered.

However, it’s not re-loadable, so once bought, it can’t be topped up. The e-gift card and balance will expire five years from purchase or last card use.

Tesco Bank chief executive, Gerry Mallon, said: “We are continuously looking for new ways to support communities during these challenging times and the volunteer e-gift card forms part of our commitment to help make life a little easier for our vulnerable customers.

“Many people are currently relying on others and it’s incredible to see so many people volunteering their time to help. Local communities have rallied around those unable to leave their house and our e-gift card helps make it easier for volunteers to get essential groceries to them in their time of need.”

The initiative comes after Tesco has more than doubled online grocery delivery slots to 1.25 million each week.

It has also donated £2m to the British Red Cross to help it continue their work as part of a national support line and doorstep support for those self-isolating.