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Big Summer Quiz Final Total
03 July 2024
A summer-themed event hosted by Civil Nuclear Police Federation and British Transport Police Federation has raised £14,000 for mental health charity, PTSD999.
The Big Summer Quiz in Liverpool was the second fundraising event in support of PTSD999 that Stuart Cowan (BTPF) and Gary Thwaite (CNPF) have organised. Last year the pair hiked from the Lake District to London in just two weeks, raising £16,000 in the process.
Two hundred people supported The Big Summer Quiz, which was made possible thanks to the support of headline sponsors, Ardonagh, as well as Axon, the National Police Healthcare Scheme, George Hay and Company, and the Blue Light show. Conditions were dull and damp outside, but the venue delivered a slice of summer and guests dressed accordingly, with the team from the Police Federation of Northern Ireland winning the 'best dressed' prize.
The quiz, which tested the audience's knowledge of film, music, and of course, TV cop shows, was won by the Scottish Police Federation. But it was the auction and prize draw that kept everyone on their toes.
Anyone could participate online, not just those in the room on the night, so bids flew in throughout the evening for distinctive lots including signed sports and music memorabilia, unique experiences such as being an SIO for a day, and family breaks and days out.
More than £12,000 was raised on the night, with a further £2,000 donated in the days after the event. This brings the total raised for PTSD999 in the last year to £30,000.
The charity sources and funds treatment, provides training, and raises awareness of the impact post-traumatic stress disorder has on a person's life. Gary Hayes, one of the co-founders of PTSD999, said: "I am completely blown away by all of the support we have received. The thousands raised will help us to continue to train and support our Emergency Services Heroes. I would like to thank everyone involved in making the event such a huge success, but I want to give a special mention to Gary and Stuart for your unwavering support, passion and dedication to raising awareness of our charity and the challenges faced by those working in our Emergency Services. "
Gary Thwaite, CEO of CNP Federation said: "It was great to see so many supporters of policing and the wider emergency services come together with the same aims. From the start, we have said we want to keep the mental health conversation going and ensure our colleagues have somewhere to turn when they need help. This money will give hope to a lot of people who are struggling."
Stuart Cowan, chair of BTP Federation said: "We wanted to build on last year's fundraising but in a way that meant more people could get involved. As well as recognising the contribution of our generous sponsors, we were very well supported by individuals and organisations who donated auction lots and prizes, not to mention everyone who bought tickets and put their hands in their pockets to raise such a huge amount of money for a very good cause."