Body Shop staff raise hundreds for Alzheimer's Society at fancy dress fundraiser

The Body Shop staff came into work in a variety of outlandish outfits, from famous film characters like Mr. T and Wonder Woman, to TV personalities like the moustached men from the 118 adverts. Clown costumes, 70s disco dancing apparel and kimonos also made an appearance in the shop, located in the St Davids shopping centre.

The fancy dress day is just one of many activities that the Body Shop staff hope to hold as part of an ongoing fundraising partnership with Alzheimer's Society, which has seen them raise almost £700 so far, with more sponsorship money still due. They are also collecting donations for the Society to help boost their total.

Body Shop spokesperson Jade Manley explains why the staff decided to support Alzheimer's Society:

'Several of the staff members had firsthand experience of family members living with dementia, so we know how difficult it can be for the families and carers. We wanted to support Alzheimer's Society with their good work in raising the profile of dementia and funding research into a cure, and it fit in well with their annual Dementia Awareness Week too.'

'All the staff really enjoyed dressing up for a good cause, and people were very generous with sponsorship. We were lucky that it was very busy in Cardiff city centre on the fancy dress day as we were able to raise awareness and get lots of donations for the Society! We're hoping to hold another fancy dress event later in the year as it's such a simple and fun way to support a charity.'

Claire Carwardine, Community Fundraising Support Officer for Wales, thanked the staff for their efforts:

' I'd like to congratulate all the Body Shop staff for their hard work in organising the fancy dress day and collecting donations for the Society. Fancy dress fundraisers are a fantastic way to raise money, we can't wait to see what outfits the girls come up with next time! We hope that more local businesses will be inspired by the success of the Body Shop team to consider a charity partnership with Alzheimer's Society, the Wales fundraising team are here to give support and advice so we encourage anyone to get in touch.' 

If you would like to find out more forming a partnership with Alzheimer's Society, contact the fundraising team at community@alzheimers.org.uk or on 02920 480 593