Cancer Research UK has been a proud partner of Pennies since 2011. During this time, more than 14 merchants have supported the life-saving work of the charity through Pennies micro-donations, including Cards Direct, Cotswold Outdoor Group, Travelodge, Zizzi, Rontec, Soho Coffee Co., and others. These donations have raised more than £1.4 million to date, just a few pennies at a time.
This partnership highlights the collective power of micro-donations, helping Cancer Research UK to fund vital services such as Cancer Chat, an online community that’s open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, to offer emotional support and connection to thousands of people affected by cancer. At the heart of this partnership are the stories of real people whose lives have been touched by this support.
Cancer Chat has become a vital resource. With over 155,000 registered members and around 1,600 new users joining every month, it’s a lifeline for people navigating the emotional and physical impacts of cancer. No one should have to face it alone.
People often turn to the forum in moments of deepest need. One member shared:
“Lots of my friends have stepped back since my diagnosis. I don’t think they know what to say. That’s what makes this forum so amazing, everyone understands.”
It’s also a space where people who might be unable to speak can find their voice. A group of people who’ve struggled to communicate verbally due to their tongue cancer treatment have used Cancer Chat to support one another, exchange advice and even arranged to meet up for a meal in London. One member posted:
“It’s a very special day today. I’m meeting a few of those from this site who helped me understand my treatment. I can’t explain just how much they’ve meant to me.”
And for so many others, it’s simply the presence of understanding and companionship found on Cancer Chat that makes all the difference.
The support doesn’t end at diagnosis or treatment. It can carry on through every stage, even after a life has ended. A long-time forum member, Tony, continued posting from his hospice bed, sharing kindness and wisdom with others. After he died, his sister found comfort by reading his posts and connecting with people he’d helped. Nearly a decade later, Tony’s daughter reached out to find his messages, discovering treasured memories in his words.
The generosity of customers donating through Pennies has played a meaningful role in supporting Cancer Research UK, helping to fund essential services for people affected by cancer. This includes Cancer Chat, where over 3,500 posts are shared every month – a testament to how vital this space is. Providing connection, hope and relief, it’s moderated every single day of the year to keep it safe and supportive, at a cost of £125 per day or roughly £865 per week – donations help to make this possible.
The difference it makes is best captured by the words of those who rely on it:
“Even though I’m surrounded by love and support, I’ve felt so lonely. Reading other people’s experiences gave me hope.”
“When I arrived here, I was in a very dark place….. It was people on here that got me through.”
It’s this real, emotional impact that’s supported by Pennies micro-donations that transforms small gestures into powerful, lasting change.
Want to make giving part of your customer experience and help power moments like these?
Get in touch to explore how your business can join the Pennies movement and use the power of digital micro-donations to make a lasting difference.
Over £260,000 raised by The Restaurant Group through Pennies micro-donations is helping fund life-saving support via Shout’s 24/7 text service. Every penny donated by customers means someone in crisis, like Sophie, gets the help they need.
Since 2011, GOSH Charity has received over £2.6 million through Pennies micro-donations, funding vital care, research, and facilities—helping children like Paris overcome incredible challenges and find new possibilities.
Since 2023, Booths has partnered with Pennies to raise funds for various local and national charities, including BAGS for Strife, raising over £28,000 through micro-donations. BAGS for Strife was set up by people who have lost loved ones to suicide. BAGS for Strife provides specially curated bags filled with items designed to help individuals navigate their grief.
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