Supporting our efforts

We rely almost entirely on donations to fund our research, so the help we receive from our supporters is invaluable. Through their generous donations of time and money, we can continue funding our crucial, life-saving work.

Different ways in which people support us

From taking part in an event to volunteering, people support our work in many different ways.

Making a donation
You can set up a regular donation by direct debit, donate in memory of a loved one, give in celebration of a special event in your life, or make a one-off donation.

Leaving a gift in your will
More than a third of the money we invest in research comes from people who remember us in their wills. Leaving a legacy is something everyone can do and even a small gift in your will can make a big contribution to beating cancer.

Taking part
There are many exciting ways to get involved with Cancer Research UK – from sponsored walks and runs, like Race for Life and our 10k series, to hosting breakfasts and dinner parties. Our events programme offers something for everyone, wherever you live and whatever your interests.

Volunteering
You could use your time and skills to help out at one of our shops, offices or events, or you could organise your own local fundraising activity, such as a Relay for Life.

Corporate partnerships
In 2006/07 more than 100 companies worked with us to raise money and convey our health messages to employees and customers.

From sponsorship to employee volunteering and payroll giving, corporate partnerships not only raise money and awareness for us but also benefit companies by enhancing their brands and motivating employees.

Retail
We have around 580 charity shops across the UK, selling both donated and new goods. And we've launched a new chain of shops called Wishes. There are now 14 of these shops, which specialise in selling new products including cards, gifts and stationery.

A taste of our fundraising initiatives

Cancer Research UK and the Marie Keating Foundation organised the Emeralds and Ivy Ball, to raise money for mobile cancer awareness units. Hosted by Ronan Keating at the Roundhouse in London, this high-profile event brought together celebrities and supporters for an evening of live music, auctions and competitions. The evening was a real success, raising over half a million pounds.

During the 2006 World Cup, the Bobby Moore Fund for Cancer Research UK partnered with Burton Menswear to celebrate the 40th anniversary of England's 1966 World Cup win and raise awareness of bowel cancer. The company produced an exclusive range of merchandise, including t-shirts designed by Michael Owen, Ashley Cole and Joe Cole.

This partnership raised £190,000, and improved awareness of bowel cancer by distributing leaflets in Burton stores across the country. It has just won the Institute of Fundraising charity corporate partnership award 2006.

Relay for Life

Organised entirely by volunteers, Relay for Life is an inspirational, community-based event that celebrates the lives of people touched by cancer and raises money for our vital work.

It is an overnight event, involving teams of people who take turns to walk or run laps in honour of those affected by cancer. There is a festive atmosphere with dancing, games and musical performances, and a candle-lighting ceremony where people write messages of hope and remembrance.

In 2006 the popularity of this event grew so much that, for the first time, events took place in every corner of the UK .We raised over £1 million through 39 events – in 2007 the event will grow even further, with more than 70 events.

About our volunteers

Over 45,500 volunteers generously give their time to Cancer Research UK. Without them, we wouldn't be able to run major fundraising events like Run for Moore.

Our volunteers help out with everything from setting up race courses to motivating participants to dealing with enquiries. There's also an army of volunteers who staff our shops – serving customers, ordering stock and handling administrative tasks. Many also work in our offices across the country.

Our thanks go out to each and every person who supports Cancer Research UK. Your contribution makes all the difference.

Visit our Support Us website to find out more about how you can get involved.