We are pleased to announce that Changes Bristol will be taking part in the Big Give Christmas Challenge 2021. This is a match funding challenge where we can double our donations in one week. This will be the 4th year for Changes Bristol to take part in the Big Give Christmas Challenge – from this we make a substantial amount of income that is a massive difference for us to be able to run our services throughout the year.
Can you lay the foundations for donations to be doubled?
This year we are aiming to raise £6,000 in total over the Christmas challenge week (from the 30th Nov – 7th Dec). This will be made up of 3 pots
- Key donors will pledge £1,500 – a quarter of the total amount
- Charity foundation champions will cover a further £1,500 – a quarter of the total amount
- During the week of the challenge, supporters will donate £3,000 – half of the total amount
So far we have secured £1,000 from key donors (thank you Tastetech and Bunzl Healthcare) but need to confirm an additional £500 in pledges by the 27th August. This can come as one £500 offer or more than one pledge (minimum pledge amount is £100). The key donor will need to agree to their pledge amount offer before the end of August but this will not be given after the challenge date – 8th December.
Being such a small charity with little outgoing costs, £6,000 will go a long way and covers the cost for us to run a peer support group for an entire year.
How does the Big Give Christmas Challenge work?
Situation
1 in 4 people will suffer from some form of mental distress at some point in their lives. Many more will be indirectly affected as their friends and loved ones suffer. Bristol has a higher proportion of people with mental ill health than the national average, with higher rates of suicide and self harm, and this is increased in more disadvantaged areas. Poor mental health can lead to poor physical health, lowers life expectancy, affects relationships and can debilitate daily life.
Solution
Changes Bristol provides a support network which anyone can access, with as few barriers as possible. People can self-refer and can access support for as long as they like. The peer support and befriending services enable people to learn from others with lived experience, alleviate mental distress, reduce social isolation, increase self-esteem and empower themselves to make the most of their lives. We provide an empathetic, confidential space to improve mental health.
How can I help?
If you are willing to pledge, you can fill in this Pledge Form with your details. The Big Give Christmas Challenge can be quite complicated, so if you have any questions, contact our Development Manager – alex@changesbristol.org.uk