Community event with a table full of assorted baked goods, including cupcakes, pastries, and biscuits, set up in a meeting room decorated with colourful banners promoting local services.

North Warwickshire Borough Council colleagues and councillors raised £1,457 for Cancer Research UK at a Cancer Awareness Event on 20th November 2025.

The internal Cancer Awareness Event, funded by the Health and Wellbeing Working Party and Unison, aimed to increase understanding of cancer while bringing staff together to support an important cause.

The event featured two informative talks delivered by Cancer Research nurses Jackie Kelly and Lynda Atter. Their presentations covered topics such as potential causes of cancer, early signs to be aware of, and the importance of early detection. They also hosted an information stand offering detailed educational materials and realistic models, helping colleagues gain a deeper understanding of the issues discussed. Staff were given the opportunity to speak with the nurses privately for guidance and reassurance.

The day included a well-supported cake sale, with colleagues contributing homemade cakes and treats. We also held a Christmas market stall, which attracted lots of interest and included items such as themed socks, mugs, cards and coasters. The Council was pleased to welcome ScalpEase, an Atherstone-based small business, which provided relaxing head massages to promote wellbeing in the workplace.

We would also like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the local Atherstone businesses who have generously donated gift vouchers for our raffle. Your support is truly appreciated.

  • Pinocchio Café
  • The Angel Ale House
  • Planters
  • Artigiano
  • Holly Lane Café
  • The Old Bakery
  • The Market Tavern Tap
  • Blake’s Bistro
  • Maya
  • Lauren Marie Photography

Our raffle boosted the fundraising total and was well received by colleagues.

One of the most emotive aspects of the event was a dedicated stand where colleagues shared personal experiences of cancer, whether involving themselves or loved ones. These contributions were thoughtful and deeply appreciated.

The Council’s Leisure Team also offered health checks, including blood pressure monitoring, providing colleagues with useful personalised health information.

Councillor Sandra Smith, Chair of the Health and Wellbeing Working Party, said:

“We are extremely proud of the dedication shown by our colleagues in supporting this important cause. Events like this not only raise vital funds for Cancer Research UK but also help increase awareness and encourage early detection, which can save lives. I would like to thank everyone who contributed, participated, and helped make the day such a valuable and meaningful experience for our staff.”

Published: Wednesday, 17th December 2025