Scotmid Co-operative has announced Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland as its 2019/20 Charity of the Year – and that it aims to raise £300,000 to support stroke survivors.
The retailer is also partnering with Northern Ireland Chest Heart & Stroke (NICHS) and England’s Different Strokes – and aims to increase awareness of the vital charity work that’s carried out to help those who have suffered a stroke.
Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland (CHSS), Northern Ireland Chest Heart & Stroke (NICHS) and England’s Different Strokes support people across the communities that are served by Scotmid’s stores.
This year’s partnership aims to raise money to fund Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland’s vital rehabilitation support services. Their support workers and volunteers help people who have survived a stroke. Without support, survivors can be left feeling anxious and frustrated, which can lead to social isolation and depression.
Staff across Scotmid’s food stores, Semichem stores, Scotmid Funerals and Lakes & Dales stores in Scotland, Northern Ireland and northern England will take part in various fundraising activities including bake sales, sponsored runs, triathlons and more.
Jane-Claire Judson, chief executive at Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to have been chosen as Scotmid’s Charity of the Year. The new partnership will help thousands of stroke survivors and their families in Scotland rebuild their lives.
“Our services support people after a stroke to regain their confidence, achieve their personal goals and get back to doing the things they love. We are really looking forward to working together to help ensure there is no life half lived in Scotland.”
John Brodie, chief executive of Scotmid, said: “This is a cause that strongly resonates with our staff, members and customers because one in five people in the communities we serve will be affected by chest, heart or stroke conditions.
“Our core purpose is to serve our communities and to improve people’s everyday lives, so the partnership is an excellent fit. Our aim during this charity partnership will be to raise the funding to help people who have suffered from a stroke, to both survive and thrive.”
