Communities are being urged to get involved in the nation’s biggest brew to help raise funds for the NHS.
Led by NHS Charities Together, the NHS Big Tea on Tuesday 5 July brings the nation together to celebrate the birthday of the NHS and give thanks to the workforce, while raising funds to provide the extra support needed for staff, patients, and volunteers.
In tandem with the NHS’ 74th birthday, health and social workers can also take the opportunity to celebrate and reflect on their incredible role taking care of the public, during the Covid-19 pandemic and beyond.
Now entering its fifth year, all funds raised from the NHS Big Tea contribute to key projects supporting staff mental health, the long-term recovery of the NHS following Covid-19, and community partnership programmes that prevent ill health and will take pressure off services in the future.
Last year more than 4,800 hosts signed up, collectively raising over £500,000. In addition to individuals, schools, community groups and organisations, more than 150 NHS charities were involved, including the N&N Hospitals Charity. This year, NHS Charities Together hopes to make the event the biggest NHS Big Tea to date, with a collective fundraising target of over £775,000.
Louise Cook, Head of Fundraising at NNUH said: “We are delighted that the Big Tea proved so popular in 2021 with so many people and groups of all ages taking part from picnics at school to cake in the office. We hope many more join in this year and remember you can have your Big Tea Party at any time not just on July 5. We are starting our Big Tea Party early with a fantastic cake stall at our hospital Fete on 11 June run by one of our volunteers Reece.
Ellie Orton OBE, Chief Executive at NHS Charities Together, said: “The NHS can’t face every challenge alone, and the network of NHS charities is proud to have funded hundreds of incredible projects supporting staff, patients and communities. By hosting tea parties and inviting your friends, colleagues or classmates, the NHS Big Tea allows us to come together and say an enormous thank you to our incredible NHS – especially after all they’ve been through these last two years, and the ongoing challenges they continue to face.
“So, whether at home, in the office or in school, we’re asking the nation to pop the kettle on, grab the biscuits, and raise vital funds to help the NHS go further this July.”
To sign up to host your own NHS Big Tea event and receive a fundraising support pack, please visit www.nhscharitiestogether.co.uk
