Sunderland Empire has raised more than £11,800 over the past year for Washington Mind, nominated by theatre staff as its 2023 charity, for whom it has provided training and resources with the aim of breaking down the stigma of talking about mental health.
Washington Mind was selected for its commitment to supporting the local people of Wearside, promoting recovery and improving mental health and wellbeing services.
The theatre’s charity panel, which launched back in 2022, organised a range of fundraising events including a staff summer sports day, an intimate performance with soprano Lesley Garrett, sponsored 10k walks, coffee mornings and a boxing day dip, as well as bucket collections at performances. Three staff members also participated in the Great North Run for the charity.
Sunderland Empire’s nominated charity for 2024 is to be announced soon.