James Truscott with Rethink Mental Illness

Branston's managing director James Truscott with Lisa Fraser-Ashton of Rethink Mental Illness

We’re only a month and a half into 2019 and already potato supplier Branston has donated £37,000 to a range of UK charities.

The company has sent around £21,400 to Rethink Mental Illness, £10,700 to Support in Mind Scotland and £5,000 to The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association.

Rethink Mental Illness and its partnerSupport in Mind Scotlandhas over 200 mental health services and support groups throughout the country, and provides expert advice, information, and support to more than 60,000 people severely affected by mental illness.

Branston also sponsored a puppy – from The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association charity – having donated £5,000 to help fund the first year of her guide dog training. Staff at the Lincoln site won a company-wide competition to select the best name which was awarded to Piper, after the popular potato variety Maris Piper.

Simon Telfer, HR director at Branston, said: “We are particularly proud to have worked with mental health charities this year, as mental health touches so many lives.

“Despite accounting for over half of all lost work days last year, at a national level, mental health issues still have a lot of stigma attached.It’s great to see mental health and wellbeing being more openly discussed.

“Our links with mental health charities have certainly helped us to have more conversations on the subject and to raise awareness of mental wellbeing with all our staff. We have provided mental health training for our managers and introduced Mental Health Supporters across the business.”

Throughout 2018, Branston took part in a variety of fundraising activities including a Century Cycle Ride, the London Marathon, the City of Lincoln 10k, ‘Branston’s Biggest Loser’ weight loss contest, Tough Mudder and staff events such as a summer BBQ, bake sales and a Christmas raffle.

Telfer added:“This year’s fundraising will support vital mental health services for those who need them.

'We’d like to thank everyone who has helped us meet our target. Our suppliers in particular have continued to support us with our fundraising activity over the year and we really appreciate their generosity in helping us to raise money for such worthwhile charities.”

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