ODEON staff choose Mind as charity partner

ODEON has chosen to partner with Mind, the company’s principal charity partner. The initial two year-long partnership will see fundraising activities taking place in cinemas across the UK and Ireland and money raised will be used to support the charity’s work.

Teams at ODEON, Europe’s leading cinema operator, are aiming to raise over £100,000 in the first year by holding themed events, participating in various sporting activities, treks and challenge events in support of the partnership.

Mind was chosen following a vote among all 5,000 people who work at ODEON in the UK and Ireland, in which Mind was selected as the clear favourite. In the last eight years ODEON teams have raised over £1 million for partner charities including the NSPCC and Variety.

Mind provides advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem. Money raised during the partnership will fund the charity’s work including the Mind Infoline as well as campaigning to secure a better deal for everybody who experiences a mental health problem.

Duncan Reynolds, UK & Ireland Managing Director at ODEON said: “Mind were the clear winner when we asked our colleagues who they would like to partner with, and we’re very excited to be supporting their essential work. We have a long tradition of fundraising at ODEON, and look forward to breaking our previous records. We think we can also use our unique position in communities across the UK to raise awareness of mental health issues as well as raising funds.”

Paul Farmer, Mind’s Chief Executive, said: “We’re thrilled ODEON has chosen to stand with Mind, and are very excited about the difference we can make to the lives of people with mental health problems.

“Whether it’s through fundraising or by ODEON colleagues giving pro-bono support, the money raised throughout the partnership will enable Mind to be there for anyone experiencing a mental health problem, when they need us.”

The charity partnership follows special charity screenings of Mrs Doubtfire in 2014, in memory of Hollywood actor Robin Williams. The screenings, at 12 cinemas, raised over £3,000 with all ticket sales donated to Mind.