Virtual cheque presented to FORCE

The Family Law Company has raised £1600 for cancer charity FORCE in memory of a colleague who succumbed to the disease.

The current lockdown meant that the presentation was carried out virtually through a Microsoft Teams meeting, when Director, Jane Chanot ‘met’ Naomi Cole, Community Fundraising Coordinator with FORCE to present the cheque.

Jane said: “The money was raised by the company as a tribute to my former secretary Helen Finch, a much loved and valued member of our team who passed away last year.

“Although it was sad not to be able to hand over the cheque in person, it was a positive experience to remember Helen through the donation.”

Two main fundraising events were held. One, the company’s annual charity fundraising skittles event in November raised £1300, with the aptly named Helen Finch Memorial Trophy presented to winning team ‘Harts and Sparks’ who also received a miniature version to keep. And in early February a special ‘Walk for Helen’ saw more than 20 colleagues join with Helen’s family for a walk at National Trust Killerton to mark one year since her death.

FORCE’s Naomi said: “We are very grateful for the ongoing support of The Family Law Company and this latest donation is extremely welcome at this difficult time.

“We missed being able to see Jane and her team in person but a virtual cheque presentation was the next best thing and we look forward to saying a proper thank you as soon as we can."

The money raised will go into FORCE funds to help the charity continue to provide its vital services.

Last week in light of the Government’s announcement of providing support for charities, FORCE Chief Executive Meriel Fishwick issued the following statement:

"We are thankful for the Government’s announcement of support for charities, particularly those like FORCE Cancer Charity who are still providing services during the Coronavirus pandemic. However, we will have to put a really strong case to try to get a share of these funds and that’s where you can help. Quite simply we are asking people to write a paragraph on why Devon and its communities need FORCE Cancer Charity. We must send the decision-makers a clear message about just how important FORCE is to so many people. Help us fight for our survival by joining this campaign. Please encourage everyone you can to get involved and give us the people-power we need to fight for FORCE.

"You can email us at connect@forcecancercharity.co.uk or contact us via Facebook or other social media channels.”