Drake Circus Extends Support For Local Charities

Drake Circus has announced that its popular giant giving box, originally installed for Christmas, will now be a permanent feature at the centre in a bid to help raise even more funds for its four charity partners, Macmillan Cancer Support, Andy’s Man Club, Plymouth Domestic Abuse Services and Woodside Animal Welfare Trust.

Located at its Cornwall Street entrance, visitors can use contactless payment to easily donate £3 to the charity.

For over 100 years, Macmillan Cancer Support has been there for people living with cancer at their greatest times of need. Throughout the pandemic the charity has continued to provide physical and mental support to cancer patients, with many facing uncertainty around self-isolation and shielding.

Andy’s Man Club was established in 2016 after the tragic loss of Andrew Roberts to suicide, aged just 23 years old. Providing mental health support to males across Plymouth, donations will help to fund its free support sessions which require no referral process or request to sign in – any man over 18 is welcome to attend.

Plymouth Domestic Abuse Services provide practical, non-judgmental support, advice, and protection for all victims of domestic abuse. It offers a wide range of support to individuals and families in the Plymouth area including confidential advice, support sessions, and a refuge.

Woodside Animal Welfare Trust has been serving the local community in Plymouth and surrounding areas for more than 40 years, taking in 19 different species of pets – from cats and dogs to rodents and livestock. Its welfare team works within the community, offering assistance, education on animal welfare, and supporting those who are most vulnerable.

The giving box at Drake Circus has helped to raise more than £1,600 for the charities so far.

Greg Lumley, centre director at Drake Circus, said: “Our community really got behind the giving box at Christmas, and so we’re thrilled to announce that shoppers are able to continue supporting our charity partners quickly and safely when they come to visit.

“Donations are vital in ensuring the teams at all four of our charity partners can continue to provide their vital services in the local community. We’d like to say a huge thank you to all of our visitors for their donations.”

Drake Circus welcomed back visitors last week as it reopened its non-essential stores. The centre continues to have extra measures such as one-way systems and hand sanitising stations in place to help everyone enjoy a safe shopping experience.