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Comic Relief’s Big Night In Raises Whopping 27 Million For Those Hardest Hit By Coronavirus

Words by Smiley Team

The coronavirus crisis has impacted people all over the world in ways that are unimaginable. But, for the most vulnerable members of our communities, this pandemic is impacting them even more so. For people reliant on services that keep them safe, well, fed, warm and sheltered, the isolation necessary to stop the virus’ spread puts them at even more risk. 


The Big Night In, organised by Comic Relief and BBC Children In Need, featured stars like Miranda Hart, Sam Smith, Stepyhen Fry, Romesh Ranganthan, Catherine Tate, Gary Barlow, Dawn French as the Vicar of Dibley and almost all of the actors who have played The Doctor in Doctor Who as part of its 3 hour show. 


So far, The Big Night In has raised £27,398,678 which will be split between Comic Relief and Children in Need, supporting charities on the frontline providing essential support. These include organisations providing food and other essentials, organisations tackling isolation and loneliness as well as organisations working to prevent domestic and child abuse


The government has also agreed to match the funding donated pound for pound and comprises a minimum donation of £20m to the National Emergences trust. Any funds raised over £20m will also be matched and split equally between BBC Children in Need and Comic Relief.


Simon Antrobus, chief executive of BBC Children in Need thanked the nation for donations and for having ‘come together in a beautiful way’.

The Big Night In was watched by an average of 6.7 million viewers, according to the BBC, with a peak audience of 8.5 million and people up and down the country are still involved in fundraising efforts.

 

Besides donating, there are a variety of ways people can get involved with the fundraising efforts from their own homes. These include the 2.6 challenge - taking on a challenge of your choice from April 26th using the numbers 2.6 and 26 or the popular Banana Bread challenge, raising money as you bake a delicious quarantine snack. If you fancy braving the chop, you can even get a sponsored haircut from your partner or other member of your household. You can find out more and donate at https://www.comicrelief.com/big-night-in



By Ellen Jones

This article aligns with the following UN SDGs

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