January UpdateJanuary Update
Happy New Year! I hope you have had a lovely festive period with your loved ones.
Having already welcomed in 2025, we’re also excited to celebrate Chinese New Year on the 29 January. This is the year of the Snake, an animal said to symbolise wisdom, intuition and transformation. Happy New Year to everyone who is celebrating!
December was busier than ever, but your incredible support made all the difference. So, I want to say a huge thank you for your dedication and hard work over the festive season. Our shops couldn't run without you.
Here's to 2025!
Together, we are beating cancer. Thank you.
Julie Byard, Director of Trading
Cancer Research UK
Brew Monday
The third Monday in January is often known as 'Blue Monday' and dubbed the gloomiest day of the year. However, this 20 January Samaritans is on a mission to turn Blue Monday into Brew Monday, by encouraging everyone to reach out for a cuppa and a catch-up with the people you care about.
We know that connecting with those around us is a great way to combat the January blues. Many volunteers tell us that volunteering has a positive impact on their mental wellbeing, by providing a chance to meet new people, make new friends and feel more connected to the local community. This was the case for shop volunteer Paul, who joined the team at our Corstorphine superstore in 2017, following a difficult time with his mental health.
This ‘Brew Monday’, why not make some time to share a cuppa and connect with your family and friends, colleagues or fellow volunteers? We also have a range of resources available via The Retail Trust all year round to support your wellbeing.
Paul's story
"Volunteering can change your life – it changed mine for the better."
“I needed something to get me back to myself, as I was suffering from depression and anxiety, and wasn’t going out or speaking to people. When I started at the Corstorphine superstore, I started to come out of my shell and talk to people, and even became a more confident person. Whether you are outgoing or shy, volunteering will bring out the best in you and you will feel better knowing that you have done your wee bit to help.”
Upcoming events in 2025
Dates for your diary
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion survey coming soon!
Look out for a survey which will be sent to you on 3 February, asking about your experience of volunteering at CRUK. Any feedback you’re able to share will help us improve the way we work with our volunteers in the future.
World Cancer Day
World Cancer Day is an international day that takes place on 4 February each year to raise awareness about cancer and encourage its prevention, detection, and treatment. At Cancer Research UK, we’ll be marking the day across our social media channels, and shining a spotlight on our work as the world’s leading cancer charity, dedicated to saving and improving lives through our research, influence and information.
This year's Cancer Research UK for Children & Young People campaign
The next Cancer Research UK for Children & Young People campaign is fast approaching. This year we’re running a six-week in-store campaign, starting next week from Monday 20 January.
Across the last financial year, and thanks to the efforts of volunteers like you, we raised over £640,000 for Cancer Research UK for Children & Young People, including over £221,000 during last year’s January fundraising campaign.
To find out more about how you can support the campaign, please speak to your shop manager. Your support can make a real difference!
Incredible progress from last year
2024 was an exciting year for us, filled with many highlights - and it was all made possible by you. Thanks to your brilliant dedication and support.
If you want to learn more about the breakthroughs we're making thanks to the money you raise in store, take a look at our 2024 research highlights.
We're here to support you
Cancer Chat
A moderated discussion forum where you can talk to others affected by cancer, share experiences and get support.
The Retail Trust
As one of our shop volunteers you have access to tailored, free and confidential health and wellbeing support.
Volunteer Hub
Find useful information and resources for volunteers and stay up to date with the latest news and updates.
If you received a link to this information by text message it is because you volunteer in one of our shops. If you’re no longer volunteering with us, please email us at volunteering@cancer.org.uk.