The Rank Group Plc raises £400k for Carers Trust in just one year as partnership continues

The Rank Group Plc (‘Rank’) has raised more than £400,000 for unpaid carers in just one year as part of its partnership with national charity Carers Trust – surpassing its fundraising target of £351,000 for the period July 2024 to June 2025.

Over the past 12 months, 687 carers have received vital support thanks to the support of both the team and customers of Rank, including Mecca Bingo and Grosvenor Casinos.

The money is distributed through Carers Trust’s UK-wide network of over 130 local carer organisations. These vital organisations provide unpaid carers with support and much-needed respite breaks.

Rank’s fundraising also provides grants for carers to buy essential household items like fridges and washing machines, as well as developing new skills.

Carers, who look after friends or family with an illness, disability or addiction, are more likely to live in poverty than the wider population. Many have been forced to give up paid work because of the pressure their caring role brings. That means essential household items most people take for granted can be unaffordable without financial help.

Money was raised by Rank this year through a series of activities, including staff competing in the London and Chester Marathons. Other fundraising events included a 26-mile walk around Glasgow, cycle rides, tough mudders and head shaves.

Rank employees also volunteered and wrapped Christmas presents to share with Carers Trust’s network of local carer organisations. Rank team members also got the chance to sit on the charity’s grants panels and see how their funding helps transform carers’ lives.

Mark Harper, Managing Director of Grosvenor, said:

“Being able to sit on the Carers Trust Grant panel was an opportunity that was both humbling and at the same time life affirming. It brought home the challenges that many people face when caring for loved ones, yet at the same time the selfless way in which they approach this.

"I am grateful to have been able to help in some small way, but moreover, take great pride in the work that our teams and customers do in supporting this great charity.”

It comes in the same year Rank celebrated raising a total of £4m for Carers Trust since their long-running partnership began in 2014. Over the course of its partnership, nearly 15,000 carers have benefited from Rank’s fundraising.

Further activities lined up for this fundraising year include a 13,000ft tandem skydive, five runners competing in the Great North Run and a six-strong London to Paris cycle ride. A special fundraising night is also planned for 25th September.

Kirsty McHugh, CEO of Carers Trust, said:

“We’re delighted that Rank’s staff and customers have raised an incredible £400,000 for carers. This generous support has been a lifeline for thousands of people across the country who care for family and friends, often at the expense of their own wellbeing and finances.

"As more and more of us take on caring responsibilities, this help is more important than ever. We couldn’t be more grateful for Rank’s unwavering support and commitment to Carers Trust’s goal of making life better for carers everywhere.”

John O'Reilly, CEO of Rank Group, said:

“It never ceases to amaze me how much money our colleagues, customers and suppliers raise on behalf of Carers Trust. This year’s total of £400,000 is a fantastic achievement that reflects the strong and shared commitment to supporting the charity.

"We have celebrated eleven years of working together and have exceeded £4 million in funds raised. Thank you to everyone who continues to support this important cause. We are now aiming to build on this strong momentum in the year ahead.”