Help us choose a new Wokingham branch charity partner

News

12 Sep 2025

After over 7 years of supporting Sue Ryder, our Wokingham branch are looking to support a new local charity. And we're inviting you, our Wokingham members, to choose who that should be. 

As a mutual, we're proud to support our communities and our branch Charity Partnership Scheme is one way we do just that. 

Thanks to you and our branch employees' support, we've been able to raise over £34,000 for Sue Ryder (registered charity: 1052076) through fundraising activities and our Charity Account. Our branch team have also supported through various other ways such as volunteering, event support, networking and raising awareness. 

Your vote counts!

Our branch team have shortlisted four local charities to partner with. The charities are: 

The Diana Brimblecombe Animal Rescue Centre (registered charity: 1170398) has a long history of caring for animals in need. For many years, rescued animals were housed at the home of Mrs Brimblecombe, whose dedication to animal welfare earned her an MBE in 2001. Today, the centre continues her legacy, providing shelter and support for animals in a purpose-built facility. 
 

First Day's (registered charity: 1157855) supports families facing financial hardship by helping them make lasting changes in their lives. They offer guidance with compassion, aiming to restore dignity and ensure every child has an equal start in life. 

Wokingham and District Association for the Elderly (WADE) (registered charity: 1178937) offers a welcoming space for people to socialise and enjoy a change of scenery. Some attend for lunch and companionship, while others in the early stages of dementia benefit from a safe and stimulating environment, giving their caregivers valuable respite. 

The Ollie Young Foundation (registered charity: 1148511) was created in memory of a young boy who tragically passed away from an incurable brain tumour just before his 6th birthday. To support others affected by brain tumours, the foundation funds research efforts, currently supporting the Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) in London. 

How to vote

If you're a member of our Wokingham branch, we'd really appreciate your input.

  1. Vote online by clicking below, or,
  2. Vote in person in Wokingham branch. 
Vote online here

Voting closes on 26 September 2025. We will announce the results on 29 September on our website and in the branch, and the chosen charity will become our new partner from 1 November 2025. 

Thank you for your ongoing support and good luck to the four fantastic shortlisted charities!