Scotmid Co-operative has launched a partnership with Childline to raise money for the vital service which provides free and confidential support for children and young people who need help.
The organisation, which has stores across the UK and whose brands include Semichem and Lakes & Dales as well as post offices and funeral homes, will display collection tins in more than 300 stores and staff will take part in fund-raising events.
The aim of the partnership is to raise £300,000 which will allow Childline to answer around 75,000 calls, emails and online messages from children and young people who need someone to listen to them.
With Scotmid also promoting ways staff and customers can volunteer for Childline, the NSPCC-run helpline hopes the partnership will also lead to more volunteers to help counsel children on a range of problems including exam stress, family issues, bullying and body image.
There will also be raffles, sponsored activities and dress down days in store to boost the money raised. Scotmid staff will also be taking part in running, cycling and climbing events.
Malcolm Brown, Head of Corporate Communications for Scotmid Co-operative said:
“We are thrilled to be working alongside Childline in the year they celebrate three decades of being there for young people.
“It’s crucial that Childline is there 24 hours a day, 7 days a week ready to help a child by either telephone call, email or text.
“Childline’s vital work is already resonating with our staff and customers. We hope to raise £300,000 to fund 75,000 contacts with Childline, helping them with their aim to be there for every young person and every childhood. This is set to be another exceptional charity partner for the Scotmid family.”
NSPCC Scotland fundraising executive Deborah Quinn added:
“We are excited that Childline has been chosen as Scotmid’s charity partner this year.
“Childline can be the first step for a child or young person to get their lives back on track. Scotmid recognised that raising funds and boosting volunteer numbers is vital in achieving this and they are determined to meet their targets and help as many children as possible.
“In our 30th year, we are really looking forward to achieving amazing things and creating more awareness of our service with the help of the motivated Scotmid staff.”