Tag: charity fundraising

“Walk to Work for MND”

Alexander Middleton’s 90 Mile Challenge for MND Scotland

For some people the daily commute to work is a routine part of life. But for Alexander Middleton, a 32-year-old solicitor from Edinburgh, it became an opportunity to raise awareness and vital funds for a charity that supports individuals and families dealing with a motor neuron disease (MND) diagnosis.

Over the course of five days during September, Alexander walked from his home in South Queensferry to his office in Edinburgh. This was a round trip of approximately 18 miles each day with the aim of raising funds and awareness for Scotland’s motor neuron disease charity, MND Scotland.

Alexander is a lifelong rugby player and has seen the devastating impact of MND on figures like Doddie Weir, Rob Burrow, and Ed Slater. He wanted to take on the challenge to help raise funds for families in Scotland affected by the brutal disease.

Alexander said, “I’m young, I’m healthy, and while I can do it, I want to try and raise as much awareness as possible.

“I just feel for people that are suffering from it. If I can do something that helps them, then hopefully that’s me doing something good. For me, I see the challenge as short-term suffering- it’s nowhere near as challenging as MND. That’s what keeps me going”.

Each day, Alexander walked approximately five hours, starting at 5:30am and ending with another long trek home after a full day’s work.

Regardless of the weather, he kept going, driven by the thought of those who no longer have the ability to walk, let alone work: “I’m in a privileged position where I can do it. I can walk and I can speak to my partner. I’m not suffering from the disease.”

There are around 480 people in Scotland currently living with MND. On average almost 200 people are diagnosed each year in Scotland. The average life expectancy is just 18 months from diagnosis.

MND Scotland is the only charity dedicated to directly supporting people with MND, their families and friends across Scotland.

“Health is wealth. It’s opened my eyes to what’s important and not letting things bother you”, Alexander said.

The challenge became a community effort. Friends and family joined him on different parts of the walk, including his 64-year-old mum who trained to take part. Local businesses stepped up too – Rogue Bros in South Queensferry donated pizzas for the final day celebration, and nutrition brand ELEAT provided high-protein snacks to fuel Alexander’s challenge.

His passion doesn’t stop there. He’s already planning his next challenge for 2026. Alexander aims to organise a four-day run from Edinburgh to Newcastle, covering the distance of four marathons. He hopes to engage colleagues from both offices, raise even more funds, and continue building awareness around MND.

“I’d love for Walk to Work to become popular,” he said. “If people are inspired by my challenge and decide to do something themselves, that’s a bonus.”

Alexander believes that small actions can lead to big change. His efforts mirror the commitment of other MND champions like Kevin Sinfield, whose fundraising efforts have inspired thousands, including Alexander.

He added: “If someone’s inspired by my challenge, then that’s a bonus. You never know what’s around the corner, so go and do that holiday, or go and fundraise, do something silly, because you just never know what’s coming.”

Jonathan Mitchell, Head of Fundraising for MND Scotland, said: “We would like to thank Alexander for taking on his incredible “Walk to Work Challenge”.

“MND Scotland is supporting more people in Scotland who are facing MND – and the descent into the unknown – than ever before. The support from people like Alexander means that people in Scotland won’t have to face the unknown alone.

“Whether you decide to follow in Alexander’s ‘footsteps’ by encouraging your workplace to take on a walking challenge in support of MND Scotland or come up with a unique quirky idea of your own, everything you do will be helping to support people affected by MND in Scotland.”

Alexander’s “Walk to Work for MND,” has already surpassed his fundraising target and has raised over £3,800. If you would like to donate to his JustGiving page, please visit:

https://www.justgiving.com/page/alexander-middleton-1

“Until we find a cure, we need to keep banging the drum”, Alexander said.

For more information about MND Scotland, please visit: www.mndscotland.org.uk, email: info@mndscotland.org.uk, or call: 0141 332 3903.

Edinburgh Tesco stores put best feet forward to help raise more than £8,000 at charity kiltwalk 

Team members from Tesco stores across Edinburgh recently trekked more than 20 miles to raise more than £1,700 towards several charities such as Big Hearts Community Trust and The Corstorphine Dementia Project at this year’s Edinburgh Kiltwalk.

Colleagues from 13 Tesco stores across East Scotland, laced up their walking boots and donned kilts to take on the route from Holyrood Park, through the capital, to the finish line at Murrayfield Stadium on Saturday 13 September.

Together, all participants from across the region raised more than £8,000, supporting a wide range of charities and community causes throughout Scotland.

Since 2016, the Kiltwalk has brought together over 178,000 people, raising millions for good causes across the country.

Brian Costello, Store Manager at the Costorphine store, said: “I’m extremely proud of my team for going the extra mile to raise funds for causes such as The Corstorphine Dementia Project, which is such an important cause here in Edinburgh.

“It was an incredible group effort, and really inspiring to see so many of our partner stores taking part on the day to support the communities they serve.”

LifeCare announces Sweet Partnership Afternoon Tea with Lannan

Because supporting the community should taste this good!

Local charity, LifeCare Edinburgh is thrilled to announce a brand-new Sweet Partnership Afternoon Tea in collaboration with one of the city’s most celebrated bakeries, Lannan.

Taking place on Monday 20th October at 3:30pm this special event offers guests the rare opportunity to savour Lannan’s exquisite cakes and pastries in comfort – all while supporting LifeCare’s vital community services for older people across Edinburgh.

Sarah van Putten, Chief Executive of LifeCare Edinburgh, said: “This event is a chance to enjoy Lannan’s truly special famous treats without the wait – and, even more importantly, to know that every slice and every sip is helping to support older people in our community.

“LifeCare has been providing care, connection, and companionship across Edinburgh for over 80 years. Partnerships like this allow us to continue that work, reach more people, and remind our city that community care is something we can all be part of.”

Darcie Maher of Lannan said  “We’ve always been humbled by the incredible support and loyalty from our customers in our local community. Partnering with LifeCare Edinburgh felt like the perfect way to give something back. 

We’re excited to bring our bakes to this special Afternoon Tea, knowing that together, we’re not only creating a delicious experience but also raising vital funds to support some of the city’s most vulnerable people. Cake really can bring people together, and this time it’s for an important cause.”

Spaces are limited for this special fundraising event, and early booking is strongly advised. Tickets go on sale on Sunday (28th September), priced at £50 per person.

Guests are invited to bring their own drinks (BYO), and every penny raised will support LifeCare’s vital services — from delivering freshly prepared meals, to offering companionship, classes, and care for older people across Edinburgh.

Children First unveils 48th ‘Bunnies and Brambles’ Banchory Bangle prize draw in bid to raise £15K

The eagerly awaited 48th prize draw for the Children First Banchory Bangle, titled ‘Bunnies and Brambles,’ has launched.

In partnership with renowned jeweller Malcolm Appleby, Scotland’s national children’s charity hopes to raise £15,000 through the prize draw, to give children and families help when they need it most and hope for a brighter future.

Children First is Scotland’s national children’s charity. The charity protects children from harm, keeps them safe and supports them to recover from trauma and abuse through its national support line and in homes, schools and communities across Scotland.

Designed by Malcolm Appleby, these stunning hand-engraved bangles draw inspiration from the vibrancy and beauty of nature, with bunnies and brambles symbolising renewal, growth and hope.

This year’s Banchory Bangle is a stunning Scottish treasure that comes in three variations: gold-plated, silver and bronze. With tickets on offer for a suggested donation of a £1 or more, everyone has a chance to win an exceptional piece of Malcolm’s artistry while helping protect Scotland’s children.

The bangle will be proudly displayed by the Scottish Gallery in Edinburgh as part of  ‘A Celebration of the Banchory Bangle’ exhibition, featuring many of Malcolm’s stunning creations from over the years.

Each year, the prize draw is run by the Children First Deeside Committee and has raised more than £200,000 since 1976.

Mary Glasgow, chief executive of Children First, said: “Malcolm Appleby’s Banchory Bangle is a unique piece of Scottish treasure and this year’s design is stunning. We can’t thank Malcolm enough for his tremendous support over the years.

“The prize draw provides a rare opportunity to win an exceptional piece of jewellery while raising vital funds to keep children safe from harm.

“We are in the grip of a childhood emergency in Scotland. Now, more than ever, children, young people and their families need Children First’s support.

“Every penny raised from this year’s Banchory Bangle prize draw will go towards protecting Scotland’s children by providing expert practical, emotional and financial support through our local services and national support line.”

Engraver Malcolm Appleby, said: “Everyone’s a winner! Even if you don’t win the bangle you are helping to create a better world for children in Scotland and a better society for our future.”

Last year’s winner, Claire Hepburn told of her ‘absolute shock’ to win the bangle after taking part in the annual prize draw for many years.

She said: “It was an absolute shock. You never think you might win this, so it was absolutely wonderful.

“I have visited Malcolm’s workshop and I do have another bangle from him, so this was just the icing on the cake. It’s such a good feeling knowing you are giving donations for a worthy cause.”

The first bangle was made 47 years ago in Banchory, Malcolm’s then home, at Crathes Station, to mark Malcolm’s 21st year of living in Scotland.

The project has evolved over the decades with the continued support of the Children First Deeside Committee and long-term connection with Taylor’s On The High Street where the prize bangles are on display and prize draw tickets are for sale.

Anyone from across the UK can enter the prize draw at: 

https://childrenfirst.org.uk/get-involved/events/the-banchory-bangle-raffle-2025/

£70,000 and Counting: Edinburgh neurodiversity charity’s fundraising heroes drive charity support forward

  • Co-founder Robin Dow’s 25-mile challenge to celebrate 25 years of the neurodiversity charity paves the way for change
  • Board members and Charity’s CEO embark on challenges to drive donations further

Mindroom is celebrating a series of extraordinary fundraising activities, led by co-founder Robin Dow, who, at 81 and recently diagnosed with stage 4 cancer, has already raised a huge £70,000 following his 25-mile walk from Mindroom’s Leith office to Tantallon Castle.

Robin’s epic walk is homage to the charity’s 25-year journey since he co-founded it with author, journalist and wife, Sophie Dow, on 2 August 2000. ‘A Mile for Every Year,’ which was expected to raise £50,000.

Reflecting on the experience, Robin Dow commented: “People are enormously generous, and we are incredibly grateful. The substantial amount we have already raised reflects countless small and large contributions coming together.

“The fact that so many people have responded and actively engaged shows that we not only have wonderful families and friends, but also that, in Mindroom, we have a very worthwhile charity.”

Adrian Astley-Jones – specialist in private equity tech advisory and Non-Executive Director for Mindroom – will also soon join the fundraising efforts with his own epic swim, inspiring colleagues and supporters to rally behind the cause.

On the 14th and 15th of September, Adrian will step out of his comfort zone and embark on a big challenge with three close friends, when he attempts to swim across the 3rd largest ocean whirlpool, The Gulf of Corryvreckan, located around 3 miles out from mainland Scotland’s West Coast, and deemed ‘unnavigable’ by the Royal Navy.

Commenting on the challenge ahead, Adrian adds: “Passion and commitment are part of the work we do with the Mindroom’s community.

“We have one goal, and that is to offer as much direct support as we can and make a difference to real people. I will certainly do my very best to contribute as much as possible to this very important mission. Every stroke counts!”

Adrian’s fundraising challenge carries a deeply personal meaning, as he has chosen to split donations between two causes close to his heart: Mindroom and Dementia UK.

CEO for Mindroom, Alan Thornburrow, will also be pushing fundraising efforts even further when he takes on the Loch Ness Marathon on Sunday, 28 September.

Talking about the joint fundraising efforts and the team spirit, Alan said: “Participating in the Loch Ness Marathon is more than a personal challenge…It’s an opportunity to channel energy into meaningful change.

“I’m proud to contribute every step of the way.

“Powered by individuals’ efforts and public generosity, Mindroom’s support has been growing steadily since I began as CEO in 2022, and our fundraising feats will benefit people directly, with donations translated into both the future of the charity and the development of new and expanded services, offering tangible support.

“This is why we do what we do, to inspire real change!”

To donate to the three individual fundraising efforts, the links are:

Robin’s epic 25-mile walk; 

Adrian’s open ocean swim; 

Alan’s Loch Ness marathon

Kiltwalk: Forever by her side

Rescue Dog’s Memory Lives On Through Kiltwalk Fundraiser for the Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home

A team of 29 dedicated supporters will be taking on the Edinburgh Kiltwalk on Sunday 14 September to raise vital funds for the Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home.

Among them is Angelika, who adopted Moose — a Jack Russell who had spent 137 days in the Home’s care — back in 2019.

Last year, Angelika walked the Edinburgh Kiltwalk in support of the charity. This year, she returns to the Kiltwalk with Moose’s ashes in her backpack, honouring her memory and continuing their journey together in spirit.

A confident and bubbly 9-year-old pup, Moose went to the Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home when her owners could no longer look after her.  Rehomed by Angelika and Matthew, Moose had lots of adventures with her new family, visiting many European countries, including Germany and Austria, and she loved going on camping trips with them in the Scottish Highlands.

Moose passed away in July, having been diagnosed with cancer two years previously, but Angelika said she lived a happy life right to the end:

“I will never forget the feeling of meeting her for the first time.  We fell in love, and we were wrapped around her paw straight away!

“She was always in the kitchen, between my legs watching me, so the first-time cooking when she wasn’t there was very hard for me.  She was our best friend, our family.”

Last year Angelika did the Kiltwalk in support of the Home and enjoyed it so much that this year she decided to complete both the Glasgow and Edinburgh walks with Matthew and Moose. In April they finished the Glasgow walk.

Angelika remembers: “We had to get up early in the morning and Moose wasn’t a morning riser, but we had to get to Glasgow and she was like ‘are you kidding me?’ But she did it! And at the end of the day she was so happy she got her favourite meal afterwards.”

Angelika will be completing the Edinburgh Kiltwalk on Sunday 14 September and will carry Moose’s ashes in her backpack in memory of her beloved best friend. 

Angelika explained, “She won’t be there, but I still want to take her ashes with me.  She should still be part of the whole process, so I’m going to carry her ashes in my rucksack. 

“It will be difficult, but it means a lot because she was our best friend, I miss her so much.

“I love what the Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home do and hope that other dogs will get a good chance, just like Moose got, to find loving homes.”

Angelika has a target of £500 to reach. To donate to Angelika’s Kiltwalk, please visit: 

https://www.justgiving.com/page/angelika-grindlay-3?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=EM

To find out more information on cats and dogs available for adoption or how you can make a donation, please visit www.edch.org.uk/donate

Local Tesco store supports local hospice with five figure donation

As part of their ongoing commitment to the local community, a Tesco Superstore in Edinburgh has raised £19,382 for St. Columba’s Hospice Care through instore fundraising and other initiatives.

The store, located on Broughton Road, has spent eight years raising vital funds for the hospice, which provides people in Edinburgh with end-of-life care, as well as supporting their families.

Recently, members of the Tesco team took part in the 7 Hills of Edinburgh Challenge, a long gruelling walk of around 27km with over 700m of climbing involved, in which they raised nearly £2,000 for the hospice alone.

In September, the team will be taking part in the famous Edinburgh Kiltwalk, part of Scotland’s largest mass participation walking event with over 178,000 people taking part since 2016.

Year-long fundraising in store includes a book donation point, which was started by store colleague Caroline Phillip, where customers are encouraged to take a book and make a small donation, which is then given to the hospice – with a current sum of £17,432 donated so far. Books are provided by local businesses and customers.

Ross Wallace, Store Manager at the Superstore, said: “We have supported St. Columba’s Hospice Care for many years and are delighted we have been able to give them such a fantastic donation of over £19,000.

“The hospice has provided help to not only colleagues in store, but our customers as well, so it’s a cause very close to our communities’ hearts.

“I’m extremely proud of all my staff for going the extra mile to raise funds for a vital service which supports so many people in the area, and I’d like to thank everyone who kindly donated over the years too.”

Amanda Southey, Partnerships Fundraiser, said: “We’re incredibly thankful to the team at Tesco for their continued commitment and generosity over the years.

“Their support makes a real difference to families across Edinburgh and the Lothians, allowing us to deliver expert, compassionate care, so no one has to face the end of life alone.”

Tesco Superstore is located at 7 Broughton Rd, Edinburgh, EH7 4EW.

Donations can be made to the store’s Kiltwalk efforts at: 

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/rosswallace-688924857d8396eb850a9ec7.

For more information on St. Columba’s Hospice Care and how to support, please visit https://stcolumbashospice.org.uk/.

Letters: Cats Protection thanks players of People’s Postcode Lottery

INTERNATIONAL DAY OF CHARITY

Dear Letters Editor,

This International Day of Charity (5 September) we would like to say thank you to each of the players of People’s Postcode Lottery whose generosity has enabled us to help around one million cats to date.

Since 2018, People’s Postcode Lottery players have raised £12,439,702 for Cats Protection, helping us be there for cats and kittens in need. One million cats’ lives have been changed for the better and this incredible milestone could not have been achieved without players’ support.

Thanks to People’s Postcode Lottery players we have been able to remain at the forefront of research on cat welfare, using our decades of experience to support cat owners to keep their pets happy, healthy and safe.

Helping people understand their cats means we can often avoid owners having to give up their pets. But when rehoming is the right thing to do, our teams look after cats with care and kindness,  finding them loving new homes.  

We speak up for cats, changing laws to give cats more protection and also run the world’s largest single-species neutering programme, for both pets and feral cats. 

When cat owners face hard times, we work to keep them with their pets, offering a temporary foster service for those fleeing domestic abuse, supporting those facing the loss of their cat as well as peace of mind when an owner passes away that their cat will be looked after and rehomed. 

Whatever it takes, we’re here for cats and the people who care for them, thanks to People’s Postcode Lottery players. 

Yours faithfully

Cat Jarvis

Senior Philanthropy Communications Officer, Cats Protection

Hourglass: Raise a Cup campaign

Hourglass, the only UK-wide charity dedicated to ending the abuse and neglect of older people, is inviting communities to come together this summer for a cuppa with a cause.

The new Raise A Cup campaign encourages people across the country to host tea mornings, coffee breaks, garden parties or picnics – raising vital funds to support Hourglass’ work tackling the abuse of older people and promoting safer ageing for everyone.

Every year, one in six people over 60 – around 2.6 million older people in the UK – experience abuse or neglect. Hourglass works with the most vulnerable of these cases through its 24/7 helpline, community response teams, and specialist support.

Jo Reeder, Income Generation and Fundraising Lead at Hourglass, said:
“Raise A Cup is a simple but powerful way to get involved. By bringing people together over tea, coffee, or cake, we can raise both awareness and funds to help end the abuse of older people.

“It’s a fun, social activity with a serious message at its heart.”

Launching this summer, Raise A Cup gives supporters the perfect chance to gather friends, colleagues and neighbours – whether outdoors in the sunshine or indoors during the colder months – and make a real difference.

Participants can download a free supporter pack with tips, materials and resources to help their event succeed.

To find out more and host your own Raise A Cup event, visit:  https://wearehourglass.org/raise-a-cup or email fundraising@wearehourglass.org

Hourglass is urging those keen to support the charity to donate by visiting www.wearehourglass.org.uk/donate or Text SAFER to 70460 to donate £10.

Texts cost £10 plus one standard rate message and you’ll be opting in to hear more about our work and fundraising via telephone and SMS.

If you’d like to give £10 but do not wish to receive marketing communications, text SAFERNOINFO to 70460.

Looking for inspiration? Here are 4 simple ways you can Raise A Cup:

1. Garden Picnic – Make the most of the sunshine with a cuppa in the park or garden.

2. Coffee Morning – Host a brew and a biscuit at home, work, or your local hall.

3. Afternoon Tea – Bring friends together for tea, treats or even fizz.

4. Bake Sale – Combine your cuppa with cake and raise extra funds for a great cause.

Whatever you choose, your event helps raise awareness of safer ageing and supports Hourglass’s vital work. Every cup counts!

Get your free event pack or donate today by visiting our website.

#RaiseACup

#Hourglass

#SaferAgeing

#EventIdeas