2020 has been a year like no other, but our incredible customers and colleagues, and our suppliers P&G and L’Oréal, have continued to go above and beyond to support our 17-year partnership with BBC Children in Need.

While fundraising festivities have looked a little different this year because of the COVID-19 pandemic, we couldn’t be more proud of everyone’s extraordinary effort to make sure Appeal Day was filled with a spectacular selection of virtual fundraising activities.

From guided mindfulness sessions and ‘Boots Big Virtual Quiz’, all the way through to downloads of our bespoke Pudsey mobile filter, colleagues from our stores and Support Office have been showing they care for Pudsey bear, and we’re incredibly proud to have raised £750,000 for the life-changing children’s charity.

For the second year running, Boots is proud to support BBC Children in Need’s A Million & Me programme. With more children than ever before struggling with their mental health, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, it has never been more important that all the money we raise helps to fund projects that specifically champion mental wellbeing, build confidence, and encourage children and young people across the country to reach their full potential. 

Seb James, Senior Vice President and Managing Director of Boots UK and ROI, comments: “Championing the mental wellbeing of children and young people continues to be a hugely important issue, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Once again, I am immensely proud of everyone at Boots who has continued to prescribe kindness and make such a profound difference to the children in our communities.”

Simon Antrobus, Chief Executive of BBC Children in Need, added: “BBC Children in Need are in awe of the work that everyone at Boots has done this year. 2020 has certainly posed challenges to the way we’ve had to operate this year. Thank you for helping us to make a difference.”

As a Principal Partner to BBC Children in Need, Boots has raised £14.5 million during its 17-year partnership, which will help to improve the lives of disadvantaged children and young people in communities across the UK.

To see how BBC Children in Need is making a difference near you, click here.