Diabetes UK have announced that Tesco colleagues, suppliers and customers have raised £10 million in the first year of their partnership.In a statement released yesterday, Tesco said that the £10 million, which is funding research, education and awareness programmes to make life better for people with diabetes or those who are at risk of developing it, is one of the largest amounts ever raised in 12 months through a charity partnership in the UK.
Tesco and Diabetes UK have also confirmed they will continue to work together in 2014 to raise further vital funds. The ongoing partnership reflects the fact diabetes is one of the biggest health challenges the UK faces today and, with the number of people diagnosed with diabetes now standing at 3.2 million, there is an urgent need to give more support to address this challenge.
Funds raised over the coming months will help to fund further research and other awareness projects.
To help reach the £10 million fundraising total, Tesco colleagues have embraced challenges and put on fundraising events in stores, distribution centres and offices around the UK; suppliers supported the partnership through promotions; and more than 7,500 people volunteered to take part in a charity collection that raised over £380,000 in three days. Throughout the year, Tesco customers have generously supported the partnership.
Barbara Young, Chief Executive of Diabetes UK, said: “Throughout the last year, I have been consistently amazed and humbled by the way Tesco colleagues, customers and suppliers have raised so much money for what is a hugely important cause.
“From shaving their heads to dressing up in all manner of silly costumes to one man who even rowed the Atlantic Ocean, they have inspired all of us at Diabetes UK with the way they have thrown themselves into the fundraising."
