00:00, 28 January 2025
Words by Cheyanne Bryan, Editorial and Campaign Marketing Executive, London
Alexander Dragonetti’s journey on The Traitors has resulted in a £30,000 surge in donations to Mencap, supporting people with learning disabilities.
A fan favourite for many, Alexander has captured the hearts of The Traitors viewers with his heartfelt story about his late brother, who had a learning disability.
In the episode where the final eight contestants revealed what they would spend the prize pot on if they won, Alexander stated he would give the money to a charity that helps people with learning difficulties in memory of his late brother. His declarations has inspired over 2,000 generous donations and sparked widespread admiration, even after his departure from the show, driving crucial support for Mencap's important work.
Jon Sparkes OBE, Chief Executive of learning disability Mencap, says in a statement to Smiley News: “We are really grateful to Alexander for courageously sharing his personal story about his late brother who had a learning disability on The Traitors. Despite not winning on Friday night Alexander remained faithful to the end and captured the hearts of the nation – he is our champion!
"Telling his story has inspired a tremendous wave of generosity from the public. Their overwhelming support for Mencap has been incredible, with generous donations around £30,000. These donations are needed more now than ever as people with a learning disability continue to face extensive inequalities every day.
"We know that when the experiences of people with a learning disability, and their loved ones, are represented in the media, it helps to change attitudes and make our society more inclusive. We loved watching Alexander’s journey throughout the show and want to thank him for all that he’s done.”
Mencap has also shared that they have received copious amounts of messages alongside donations which reads: “I support children with learning disabilities and was inspired by Alexander from the traitors to donate” says one donation
Another one reads: “I’m the parent of a child with learning disabilities who will need care in the future and I worry about his future when I’m gone every day. I also was moved by Alexander’s story on the traitors and wanted to donate to his cause even though he hadn’t won.”
To learn more or to donate, visit mencap.org.uk.
At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this article.
Mencap. This is the UK’s leading charity for people with learning disabilities. It works to ensure that people with learning disabilities are treated equally and have access to the services and support they need. Find out more.
The National Autistic Society (NAS). This charity is for people on the autism spectrum. The charity provides support, guidance, and advocacy for people with autism and their families. Learn more here.
Learning Disability England. This is a membership organisation dedicated to improving the lives of people with learning disabilities. Their work includes advocating for better policies, and inclusive communities through collaboration with families and professionals. Support them here.
