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Local Retailer Roy’s of Bowthorpe raises £6,416 to Empower Autistic Communities


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Corporate fundraising continues to play a vital role here in our fundraising team, and this month we’re celebrating an inspiring example from right here in East Anglia. The team at Roys of Bowthorpe have raised an incredible £6,416 for Autism Anglia. Funds that will make a meaningful difference to autistic people and their families across our region.

This achievement showcases just how powerful community‑minded businesses can be when everyday activity turns into positive social impact.

A Local Business Making a Lasting Difference

During a recent visit to the Bowthorpe store, Anna from our fundraising team met with Lee from Roys to receive the cheque on behalf of Autism Anglia. The total raised came from two simple yet highly effective fundraising methods:

  • Carrier bag sales, with proceeds donated to Autism Anglia
  • Customer generosity through collection tins at checkout

What makes this even more special is that Autism Anglia was nominated by a Roys employee, before being chosen in a staff vote as one of their selected charity partners. This kind of staff‑led decision-making is a growing trend in corporate fundraising, empowering employees to back causes that feel personally meaningful and strengthening workplace engagement as a result.

We’re incredibly grateful to every member of the Roys team and the customers who contributed. Your support directly helps us deliver specialist services, advocacy, and community projects that improve the lives of autistic people and their families across East Anglia.

Why Corporate Fundraising Matters More Than Ever

Across Norfolk, Suffolk, and Essex, demand for autism support continues to grow. Corporate partnerships allow Autism Anglia to:

  • Expand services such as family support, social groups, and specialist interventions
  • Reach more communities, where access to autism‑specific help can be limited
  • Deliver awareness and inclusion training across workplaces, schools, and community organisations
  • Invest in new initiatives that build confidence, skills, and wellbeing

By choosing Autism Anglia as a charity partner, businesses aren’t just raising money, they are helping to build more understanding, inclusive, and supportive communities.

How Your Business Can Make an Impact in East Anglia

Whether you’re a large employer or a small local company, there are plenty of ways to get involved. Businesses across East Anglia are increasingly looking for meaningful, values‑driven CSR activities that unite their workforce and show visible commitment to their community. Here are a few impactful ways your organisation can support Autism Anglia:

1. Charity of the Year Partnerships

Nominate Autism Anglia as your Charity of the Year and rally your staff behind a full calendar of fundraising activities.

2. Staff‑Led Fundraising

From sponsored challenges to bake sales, fun days, raffles, or team hikes, employee fundraising boosts morale and team spirit. You’ll find some examples of ours, here.

3. Workplace Giving

Payroll giving or round‑up schemes allow colleagues to donate effortlessly each month.

4. Event Sponsorship

Support one of Autism Anglia’s flagship events and gain brand visibility across the region.

5. Donations at Checkout

If you’re a retailer like Roys, customer collection tins or donation prompts can raise significant funds over time.

6. Skill‑Sharing and Volunteering

Offer your team’s expertise or volunteer hours to support Autism Anglia’s ongoing projects.

These opportunities help businesses fulfil their social responsibility goals while strengthening community ties. It’s something that customers increasingly expect from organisations today.

Celebrating Corporate Kindness in the Community

The success at Roys of Bowthorpe highlights a simple truth: local businesses are at the heart of strong, supportive communities. Their willingness to champion local charities has a direct impact on families, schools, and neighbourhoods throughout the region.

Every penny raised stays within East Anglia, enabling Autism Anglia to continue its mission to enhance the lives of autistic people, whether through tailored advice, therapeutic activities, specialist education, or the creation of safe, supportive community spaces.

Want to Support Autism Anglia? Let’s Work Together

If your organisation is looking for a charity partner in 2026, or you’re exploring ways to engage your staff in meaningful fundraising, our friendly fundraising team would love to help.

👉 Click here for more information on how to get involved or email the fundraising team directly at fundraising@autism-anglia.org.uk

We’d be delighted to work with you to create a partnership that inspires your colleagues, brings your community together, and helps autistic people across East Anglia thrive.

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