ODS raises over £8,000 for Cancer Research UK

The partnership, nominated by ODS staff, has seen a year of successful fundraising activities designed to support CRUK’s lifesaving work. The fundraising events, included: 

• the Race for Life 
• the Chiltern 50 – A challenge where staff walked, jogged, hiked, and ran to raise money 
• bake sales – delicious homemade treats sold to raise vital funds 
• tombola – a fun and engaging event with donated prizes 
• interactive games – staff enjoyed games like "Guess the Teddy's Name," "Football Sweepstake," and "Guess the Sweet Number." 

In addition to these events, staff contributed in many other ways. Many baked items, donated items for the tombola, and made additional personal contributions to further support the fundraising efforts. 

Comments 

"Well done ODS for once again showing their commitment to doing good in Oxford. The staff’s enthusiasm and dedication have been invaluable in helping raise vital funds for cancer research. It's partnerships like this that make a real difference. I want to thank ODS staff for their commitment to raising such a significant amount for Cancer Research UK." 

Councillor Nigel Chapman, Cabinet Member for Citizen Focused Services and Council Companies 

“I am incredibly proud of the efforts from team ODS. It has been a privilege to work with Cancer Research UK and Josie from their Oxford branch over the past year to raise vital funds for lifesaving research. Personally, I have enjoyed participating in events like the Race for Life and Chiltern 50 alongside some fantastic colleagues, who have all pulled together for this fantastic cause. Cancer impacts so many lives, and it was important for us that we could contribute to the important work Cancer Research UK does.” 

Maria Warner, Social Value Lead at ODS 

“On behalf of Cancer Research UK, I’d like to thank everyone at ODS for their fundraising over the past year. From taking part in the Race for Life, to baking cakes, the entire ODS team have got involved and raised over £8000 for life-saving cancer research in Oxfordshire. This amount of money could fund a lab technician for four months. Lab technicians are crucial to the running of the lab, ensuring researchers are equipped with everything they need to beat cancer.  

“Additionally, ODS staff have donated over 50 bags of preloved clothes and household items, which will be sold in our shops to raise even more funds for cancer research.  

“Cancer Research UK has been at the heart of the progress that has already seen cancer survival in the UK double in the last 50 years, but we’re not stopping now. Incredible supporters like Oxford Direct Services are helping us to go further and faster in the fight against the disease.” 

Josie Coakley, Cancer Research UK Relationship Manager 

Textile donations for additional support 

To further support Cancer Research UK, ODS installed textile collection banks at its Cowley Marsh and Horspath depots, allowing staff to donate unwanted textiles. These collection banks have raised £1000 through stock donations, contributing even more to the overall fundraising total. 

Funds for cancer research in Oxford 

The funds raised by ODS will directly benefit cancer research in the Oxford area, with contributions earmarked for the CRUK Oxford Centre. The funds will support critical, lifesaving cancer research: 

• £100 could pay for a patient's cancer biopsy where a tiny amount of a lump or tumour is removed and sent to be studied in a lab. Early diagnosis is essential to getting the right treatment to patients. 
• £250 could buy a special device used to spin blood samples until different types of blood cells separate. Scientists can then study the different types of cancerous cells to find out more about them to help stop cancer in its tracks. 

ODS has worked closely with Cancer Research UK's Relationship Manager, Josie Coakley, throughout the year to ensure that their efforts are maximised to make the greatest impact possible. 

Looking ahead to 2025 

In 2025, ODS will partner with a new local charity, once again selected by staff members. The charity partnership will continue to support causes close to the hearts of the ODS team, reinforcing the company’s ongoing commitment to making a positive social impact. 

For further donations or to get involved, please visit the ODS fundraising page.