Comic Relief at 40: Engaging Employees in Fundraising

Workplaces across Britain will be doing 'something funny for money' later this month as Comic Relief, one of the UK's biggest fundraisers, celebrates its 40th birthday.  

Red Nose Day 2025 is on Friday March 21, with people again being urged to 'give big' to help fund an array of community initiatives at home and abroad.  

Thousands of businesses of all sizes and in all sectors actively take part in this hugely popular event, which in 2024 raised £38,631,548 in total. As well as boosting the charity's coffers, supporting Comic Relief at work is great for lifting staff morale and 'giving something back.'  

Supporting Red Nose Day at Work  

From dress-down days, quizzes and pj parties to cake sales, raffles and auctions, employers have been doing their bit for Red Nose Day ever since it was first launched by co-founder and comedy legend Sir Lenny Henry in the 1980s.  

And this year is no exception, with Comic Relief coming up with loads of ideas to put the fun into fundraising.  Challenges include revisiting the fashions of 40 years ago - the decade of mullets, leg warmers and shell suits - or alternatively, dressing up in red, head to toe, complete with obligatory red nose.  

Of course, your team may well have some imaginative money-making suggestions of their own, so try and get everyone involved, especially your apprentices. Include learners in your event planning by asking them for their thoughts. Comic Relief has always had wide appeal among young people, and apprentices might have some brilliant ideas based on challenges they've done while at school, college or university. 

Charity events can serve as excellent ice breakers too, giving learners the chance to meet and mix with co-workers and colleagues they wouldn't normally have much contact with. They're also great for teambuilding and practising creative, planning and organisational skills.  

Bear in mind though that while you're more gregarious, outgoing learners will jump at the chance to take part in a challenge, others might be a little reluctant. If your apprentice is shy, keep their involvement low-key and perhaps suggest they pair up with their mentor or buddy for any fundraising activities. As a supportive, understanding employer you can allow for any social anxiety they might have, while at the same time encouraging everyone to join in.  

Share your Comic Relief activities online  

Doing something for charity makes for eye catching online content, so call upon your apprentices' enviable digital know-how. Posting on social media is second nature to most Gen Z learners so ask them to help you share your Comic Relief stories and photos online. Their skills will come into their own if you're a smaller business without your own digital marketing function. 

Whatever you choose to do, have fun and make the most of what is a such a feel-good opportunity.  

To register your workplace and for more inspiration click here! 

Red noses, T shirts, stickers and other fundraising accessories are all available from Comic Relief's official website.