25 Nov 2025 Community

The Mill in Batley Backs ‘Copper for The Kirkwood’ with Fundraising Drive

Staff at The Mill in Batley are throwing their support behind The Kirkwood once again, helping to launch a brand new fundraising initiative, Copper for The Kirkwood.

The initiative encourages supporters to dig out their change jars and donate spare copper coins to help raise vital funds for the hospice, which provides specialist care for people with life limiting illnesses across Kirklees.

Paula Empson, Marketing Manager at The Mill, explained why the team has continued to champion The Kirkwood: “Having previously selected a different charity to support on a yearly basis, we decided to stick with The Kirkwood as it had the better response from our customers. It was obvious that it meant a lot to them, and many had a story to tell about friends or family having some involvement with The Kirkwood.

“We have hosted many events, and fundraising activities over the years including, running tombolas many times; we continually collect via the till point tins; we have donated hampers and vouchers. We have also raised money via fashion show ticket sales and raffle tickets. We have also recycled Christmas trees. We are extremely proud to have been able to assist in what must be the monumental task of fundraising for the hospice.”

Speaking about the new Copper for The Kirkwood initiative, Paula added: “Everybody has a change jar, and that is what the Copper initiative is all about. We have many customers who visit us regularly and we will be able to talk to them about the initiative, encouraging them to bring in their change jar. We can also generally promote our donation point via centre posters. We will even include a tannoy to be broadcast several times a day over the pa system reminding customers to bring their copper jar in on their next visit.

“Given our customer demographic, the services offered by The Kirkwood resonate deeply with them. They understand the need for the provision of end of life and respite care and that at some point it will touch their own lives.

“We will continue to support The Kirkwood in any way we can, be it a free stall at our craft fairs or by donating raffle prizes. We are happy to take on any fresh ideas to assist as we know how much The Kirkwood means to both customers and staff.”

Finally The Kirkwood's community fundraiser Julia Owen said: “We are incredibly grateful to the management, the stores and all the staff at The Mill Outlet for the support that they have so generously given to our charity over the years. This has benefited our charity both from raising funds and also allowing us to raise awareness of the services that we provide in the community.” 

If you would like to fundraise for us just get in contact with our fundraising team.