Asda and Marks & Spencer have launched pre-paid cards to help older, vulnerable and self-isolating customers have their shopping picked up by volunteers.

The grocers said the cards will provide a contact-free way for others to collect and pay for weekly shops of relatives and neighbours who may not be able to leave their homes during the coronavirus pandemic.

Shoppers can buy the volunteer cards on the Asda and M&S websites from today, which can be topped up with credit. Volunteers will then receive a barcode via email that can be used to pay for the shopping.

M&S’ ‘We’re All In This Together’ e-gift card can be topped up with any amount over £10 and balances will not expire for 24 months.

Asda’s ‘volunteer shopping card’ can take credit up to £150.

Asda chief executive Roger Burnley said: “We are continuing to work around the clock to look for new ways to support communities through Covid-19. Over the last two weeks, we’ve brought in over 50 million core essentials for our customers. We have also made over 37,000 deliveries to our stores, ensuring our shops are safe and well-stocked for our customers to visit.

“We know that many people are relying on others in this time of need, and it is amazing to see how the country has come together and so many volunteers are giving their time to help others, so we wanted to help make it easier for them with this simple payment solution.”

M&S Food boss Stuart Machin said: “We’re all extremely grateful for the volunteers who are helping to deliver food to people in their local communities. Volunteer organisations have told us it can be challenging for people who are isolating to organise payment for their shopping, so we want to make it easier for volunteers and support our most vulnerable customers with an easy way to pay.

“This simple, yet effective initiative, means our customers can be confident that they can continue to receive the food they need while staying at home, without having to worry about exchanging cash or payment transfers.”