News – 21 December 2021
A group of dedicated Grand Union colleagues helped to raise more than £59,700 for charities – in time for Christmas. Grand Union colleagues joined forces with several other organisations in the housing sector, to raise tens of thousands of pounds for Mind charity and Harry’s Pals. The money raised will go towards a vital and bespoke counselling service provided by Harry’s Pals, to support parents who have recently found out that their child is severely ill or disabled. Funds will also help Mind in its mission to provide advice and support to anyone experiencing a mental health problem, alongside campaigning for change. Having totted up the funds through online and offline efforts, the team were delighted to have raised such a vast amount, providing Christmas cheer for all involved. The money was raised from plant sales, dinner parties, competitions through Grand Union’s intranet and, perhaps most daringly, through a 34-mile trek, in the Lake District. The 24 peaks challenge included a whopping 12,234ft of ascent – close to halfway up Mount Everest and three times up Ben Nevis. The challenge saw orgnaisations including Longhurst Group, the Chartered Institute of Housing, Man GPM and Mosscare St Vincent’s housing, joining Grand Union colleagues on the hike. Grand Union team member Chloe Tilford, said, “I think I speak for everyone who took part when I say the 24 Peaks challenge was the hardest thing we’ve ever done. From the relentless bad weather on day one that slowed us down and caused a few unfortunate injuries, to the brutal first peak of day two – 2,400ft ascent over 2.2 miles – to the long and painful final descent to the pub that was then closed.”
Dave Lakin, Director of Development & Commercial at Grand Union, added: “The donations spurred us on during the trek, especially during very wet and dismal conditions. Having planned the fundraiser for many months, it was great to finish it, with smiles on our faces.”
Alongside its commitments to Mind, Grand Union recently signed up to Harry’s Pledge – a campaign launched by Harry’s Pals, calling for social housing providers to do more to support carers.
Harry’s Pals was set up by Hayley Charlesworth, daughter of Longhurst Group Chief Executive Julie Doyle, to support the mental health of parents of critically ill young children. Hayley’s son Harry was born with spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy and many other complex needs which means that he needs round the clock care.
Sponsor the team here:
www.gofundme.com/f/guhg-longhurst