Central England Co-operative raises £780k for charity partner

Central England Co-operative says it will continue the charity partnership for another 12 months.

Central England Co-operative has raised more than £780,000 for Dementia UK in just one year – and announced its continued support for the charity. Colleagues, members and customers at the society have been supporting Dementia UK for the past 12 months. The year has seen people from 16 counties jump out of planes, undertake feats of endurance and organise village fetes. More than £280,000 was handed over in donations, with a further £500,000 coming from money raised via the the co-op’s 5p carrier bag levy. The money has been used to help set up nine specialist Admiral Nurses, additional vital training and the ongoing staffing of the free Dementia Helpline, which is available to anyone with queries or concerns about dementia. Now the society has announced that it will continue its fundraising partnership with the charity for another 12 months. Chief executive Martyn Cheatle said: “I am delighted that we will continue to partner with Dementia UK. Over the past 12 months, colleagues, customers and members have helped make a real difference. I cannot thank them enough for their dedication. “It is great to know that, as a community retailer and responsible business, our donation will help improve the lives of those living with dementia, and those who love and care for them, in our trading area, leaving a lasting impact for many years to come. We cannot wait to continue to support the charity’s vital work in helping to tackle this increasing issue.” Hilda Hayo, chief Admiral Nurse and chief executive at Dementia UK, said: “We cannot thank everyone at Central England Co-operative enough for their efforts in helping more families face dementia. We are looking forward to their continued support over the next year. ” Customers and members can continue to support Dementia UK by donating via collection tins at Central England Co-operative’s food stores, funeral homes and travel shops – and colleagues have more fundraising events planned over the coming 12 months.