TWO local branches of Specsavers are celebrating after raising almost £1,800 for the mental health charity Mind in just two years.
The sister stores at Chelmsley Wood and Castle Vale began fundraising for Mind when optical assistant, Sasha Howard completed a charity skydive from 10,000 feet.
As a result of the team’s fantastic efforts, supported with an in-store fun day, they raised almost £1,200.
But then Covid-19 struck and they had to put their fundraising activities on hold.
However, as restrictions started to ease earlier this year, staff took to the great outdoors with a sponsored walk, travelling the combined distance of 920 miles – the equivalent of Land’s End to John O’Groats – raising another £540 for the cause.
“It’s fantastic to work alongside such a thoughtful and caring team,” said Sukhi Drake, store director.
“Looking back, I can’t quite believe how much we’ve helped raise for a charity close to our hearts.
“We’d like to express our gratitude to our friends, family and wonderful customers who have helped Mind continue their vital work which has been brought into even sharper focus during these challenging times,”
In line with guidance from the NHS, Specsavers are keeping safety measures in place, including the wearing of face coverings, unless there is a medical exemption.
This includes maintaining social distancing in stores, continuing to use PPE and sanitising all testing equipment and frames before and after each use.
Doors will be kept open whenever possible to improve ventilation and although card payments are still preferred, cash payments will be accepted too.
Specsavers will also continue to operate its Ask The Expert chat function on its website and its RemoteCare service, which enable customers to speak to an expert from the comfort of their home via video call or phone.
For more information call Specsavers Chelmsley Wood on 0121 329 5510 or Specsavers Castle Vale on 0121 312 4946.
