Merseyrail has announced that it has raised £41,000 for Alder Hey Children’s Charity in 2019 as its Charity of the Year.

Employees voted for Alder Hey to be the Charity of the Year for 2019-20.

Fundraising activity was started with a £10,000 boost. Employees then carried on raising money and awareness through scrap metal donations, charity race nights, train enthusiast trips and various other raffle draws and challenges organised by Merseyrail staff.

The partnership has helped to continue Alder Hey Children’s Charity’s work in funding a wide range of projects across the hospital.

Distraction is really important at Alder Hey as it reduces the amount of time spent in an appointment, meaning more children can be seen each day. It also reduces anxiety and boredom during treatment.

Projects include funding wall coverings to 4D immersive projections in treatment rooms around the hospital.

What did the officials say?

Andy Heath, Merseyrail’s Managing Director said:

“Alder Hey Children’s Hospital delivers life-saving treatment to children and young people across the region and beyond, and we’re thrilled to be able to raise this level of money and awareness for such a worthwhile cause.

“Working with Alder Hey over the last 12 months has been an absolute pleasure, and we will continue to support them however we can for years to come.”

Ellie Freestone, Corporate Fundraiser from Alder Hey Children’s Charity, said:

“We are really grateful to everyone at Merseyrail for choosing to support Alder Hey Children’s Charity over the last 12 months.

“The support received allows us to continue our work funding activities and projects that are designed to enhance and improve the lives of our children and young people.”