Central Co-op has revealed it has raised more than £2.5m for Dementia UK over the past seven years.

The total was achieved through initiatives including the retailer’s ‘Time for a Cuppa’ fundraising events, sports challenges and car washes, as well as through the micro-donation charity Pennies, which invites customers to donate when paying for their shopping or fuel. 

Central Co-op, which operates more than 460 stores in England and has 7,500 staff, said the money raised had contributed to the expansion of the charity’s Admiral Nurse services, with the number of Admiral Nurses –  specialist dementia nurses – growing from 200 to 447. 

Hilda Hayo, chief executive of Dementia UK, said: “We’re so grateful for the ongoing support from Central Co-op colleagues, customers and members since 2017. It’s been our longest-standing and highest-value partnership to date.”

Hannah Galimore, social change manager at Central Co-op, said: “We are incredibly proud of what we have achieved together with Dementia UK over the past seven years. 

“The dedication and generosity of our colleagues, members and customers have been truly inspiring. It’s not just about the money raised; it’s about the awareness we’ve spread and the difference we’ve made in local communities. 

“We are honoured to have been part of this journey and look forward to continuing our support for those affected by dementia.”

As the partnership with Dementia UK comes to a close, Central Co-op said its next charity partner would be the mental health and emotional support charity Samaritans.