The Rank Group Plc

Carers Trust is delighted to be in partnership with The Rank Group Plc, owners of Mecca Bingo and Grosvenor Casinos. The partnership was launched in February 2014 and funds the Rank Cares grants programme for carers across the UK.

The grants give carers access to desperately needed breaks, essential equipment to support caring responsibilities and skills and training courses. They can make the challenge of being a carer that little bit easier, help stop people from breaking down under the strain and help carers find ways to cope with caring. Since the start of the partnership, the funds raised by the Rank Group have helped over 12,610 carers.

Fundraising and volunteering

14 February 2021 marked the seventh year anniversary of the partnership. Over the seven years the teams have taken part in skydives, head shaves, hair waxing, team vs team challenges, fancy dress days, walks, marathons and cycles . . . the list is endless, raising over £2.8m.

Employees have also been showing their support by volunteering to help their local Carers Trust Network Partners. They have helped with gardening, baking cakes for events, supporting in Carers Week, organising pamper days, cooking a 3-course meal and providing HR support, to name just a few activities.

Ten Network Partners were able to run peer support groups with funding from Rank. These Network Partners also worked closely with the local Mecca & Grosvenor clubs to help with afternoon teas and spaces to meet and to build on the local support in the community.

"The fundraising efforts of the Rank Group team members and their customers across the country have been phenomenal. Their incredible support has made a vast difference to local unpaid carers by providing them with respite breaks, grants to buy essential items such as washing machines and giving them the opportunity to go on courses and learn new skills.” 

Svetlana Kirov, Director of Fundraising and Communications, Carers Trust

Woman receiving receiving you make the difference certificate

“I love fundraising for Carers Trust as I can see how rewarding it is, not only for the Carers but also the ones they care for. It also builds on community spirits within the local area. I feel an effort made for the happiness of others is a job well done!”

Dawn –Champion at Mecca Bingo in Paisley, was awarded for all her fundraising and raising awareness of the partnership with Carers Trust.

Woman and man

“Quite simply, what I say to the team and customers is . . . It's nice to be nice, simple but true!!”

Lynn – Champion at Grosvenor Plymouth, was awarded for her fundraising & for team and customer engagement.

Running the Vitality Big Half and Virgin London Marathon 2021

We're excited that live events are taking place again. The Rank Group has four confirmed runners taking part in The Vitality Big Half on 22 Sunday August 2021, and three runners in the Virgin London Marathon on 3 October 2021. All are running to support and fundraise for Carers Trust.

A big thank you to our 2020 marathon fundraiser

Gemma from Grosvenor Great Yarmouth, took on two very different marathons in 2020. In April, as part of the 2.6 challenge she ran laps around the outside of her house equivalent to 26.2 miles. Then, on a very wet Sunday in October, she ran a marathon again in her local area for the 40th anniversary race.

Gemma has so far raised the amazing sum of £2,877 and is finally getting the chance to run the actual London Marathon in 2021.

Carers Trust me to make a difference, t-shirt and race number

About the Rank Cares Grants programme

Our partnership is enabling us to deliver small grants to carers registered with Carers Trust's Network Partners:

  • Carers Essentials Fund – carers can apply for grants towards the cost of vital equipment such as washing machines, cookers, fridge freezers or a bed.
  • Carers Take Time Out Fund – is giving carers time out from caring to relax, do something for themselves and recharge their batteries.
  • Carers Skills Fund – is enabling carers to learn new skills to help them with caring or to return to work.

Please note, carers must be registered with a Carers Trust Network Partner to access these grants. 

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