Like many charitable organisations during the Covid-19 pandemic, Les Amis – which provides essential services for people with learning disabilities – suffered financially as it has been unable to hold fundraising events.
As a result, transport co-ordinator John Murray decided to try to raise £1,000 for the charity by getting a hippo or a unicorn tattoo, either of which will bear the Les Amis logo. The final decision will rest with those who donate to Mr Murray’s JustGiving page where they can vote on the preferred design.
Mr Murray said he wanted to make up for some of the funding lost throughout the year and, at the time of writing, he had already raised £365.
‘I already have four tattoos so I thought that by asking people to donate and choose which one I’ll have next it would encourage more people to give money,’ he added. ‘I am hoping to raise £1,000 to support the charity’s work.’
Les Amis cares for 86 residents and is usually heavily reliant on fundraising events – many of which have been cancelled due to Covid guidelines.
Head of support services Jason Loveless said the charity – which is ineligible for the government’s co-funded payroll scheme – had been ‘hit hard’ by the pandemic.
‘We have been overwhelmed by the support we have had from individuals and organisations but we still need to ensure that we can continue to provide the services that make a difference to the quality of life for our residents. John’s idea of letting people choose his next tattoo is very brave but we really appreciate and value his commitment to Les Amis.’
Those who wish to donate – and vote on John’s tattoo – should click here.
