Barnardo’s has issued an urgent appeal for Bath residents to help it cope with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic by forming their own local fundraising groups.
Loredana Walsh at the Oldfield Park store | Photo © Justin Guy
The children’s charity has lost millions of pounds of income due to the closure of its shops and the cancellation of community events in response to the lockdown.
Thousands of staff have been furloughed at a time when vulnerable children and young people are most in need of support.
Therefore residents are invited to form Barnardo’s Helpers Groups (BHGs) which would act as local ambassadors for the charity, raising awareness and funds.
Volunteers would receive full support and training.
Barnardo’s regional fundraising manager Sarah Williams said: “In these extraordinary times, we need the public’s support so that we can survive this crisis and continue our essential work for many more years to come.
“By forming a new network of Barnardo’s Helpers Groups today, we can be ready to work together on local fundraising opportunities when the lockdown comes to an end.”
BHGs establish links with local schools, youth groups, sports clubs, businesses and other potential partners to encourage them to support the charity through sponsored events and collections.
They also arrange coffee mornings, cake sales and quizzes. Bigger groups even organise their own concerts and sports tournaments.
Barnardo’s can help with recruitment and promotion, roles and responsibilities, policies and procedures, and other tasks.
The charity can also arrange for guest speakers from local children’s services to update members on current activities – some BHGs have even welcomed celebrity supporters to their events.
Sarah added: “We hope to attract people of all ages and backgrounds. Some will have a few hours to spare for a good cause, while others will want to develop valuable skills in fundraising or event management.
“It’s a great way for people to have lots of fun and make new friends while supporting one of the UK’s leading charities. Every donation will make a difference.”
To find out more, call Sarah on 07740 515979 or email [email protected] .
Alternatively, visit www.barnardos.org.uk/coronavirus-crisis-appeal to offer your own donation, or send cheques (payable to Barnardo’s) to Crisis Appeal, Barnardo’s, Tanners Lane, Barkingside, Essex IG6 1QG.
