Teens Unite Fighting Cancer, a Hertfordshire charity supporting young people affected by cancer, has been selected as one of five key projects featured in a new national campaign celebrating £3 billion raised for good causes through Co-op stores.
The Broxbourne-based charity helps teenagers and young adults aged 13 to 24 navigate the social, mental, and emotional challenges that follow a cancer diagnosis. It offers activities, workshops, and residential stays designed to rebuild confidence and foster connections among young patients.
Since 2017, the charity has received £231,000 in funding from the National Lottery to deliver these essential community services. Organisers note that the challenges of cancer often persist long after medical treatment has ended for young patients, making ongoing support crucial.
National campaign highlights local impact
The campaign, running until September 1, features special displays across selected Co-op stores to connect local shoppers with the vital projects supported by National Lottery ticket sales. It aims to showcase how everyday purchases at Co-op contribute to meaningful community outcomes.
Roxanne Lawrance, chief executive of Teens Unite, said: “We are incredibly proud to be recognised as part of this campaign and grateful to National Lottery players, whose support has helped make our work possible. Thanks to National Lottery funding, Teens Unite Fighting Cancer has been able to continue providing vital support for teenagers and young adults living with and beyond cancer, helping them to build confidence, make meaningful connections and look forward to the future. We are delighted to celebrate the incredible difference National Lottery players continue to make to young people and communities across the UK every day.”
Retail leaders praise ticket sales milestone
Retail leaders highlighted that every ticket purchase helps strengthen local communities and improve personal wellbeing. Kate McCrae, Co-op retail director, added: “Whether you pop to Co-op for a pint of milk, lunchtime meal deal or dinner, many people also enjoy playing The National Lottery. Every ticket bought has helped to make a difference, and this amazing sum raised via Co-op since The National Lottery first began more than 30 years ago has helped to fund causes that support stronger communities, improve wellbeing and create opportunities for people of all ages in towns, villages and cities across the UK.”
Bridget Lea, managing director of retail at National Lottery operator Allwyn, commented: “Reaching £3 billion raised for National Lottery Good Causes through Co-op stores is a remarkable milestone. Every National Lottery player who has purchased a ticket at Co-op has helped make a difference to communities across the UK. This campaign is our opportunity to say thank you to players, to the incredible Co-op team and to everyone who has helped deliver life-changing National Lottery funding over the past three decades. The projects featured in this campaign are powerful examples of the positive impact made possible because of National Lottery players every single day.”
Continued support for young cancer patients
The campaign underscores the ongoing need for services that address the long-term effects of cancer on young people. Teens Unite's inclusion in the campaign highlights the role of National Lottery funding in sustaining such community-based initiatives across the UK.
The displays will remain in selected Co-op stores until September 1, giving shoppers the opportunity to learn about the projects their ticket purchases support.
