The Evening Standard and Independent

On The Breadline

2023

The Evening Standard and Independent ran their campaign ‘On the Breadline’ as part of their Christmas appeal to support those struggling through the cost-of-living crisis. The campaign was launched in partnership with Comic Relief and The Childhood Trust.

In just four weeks, the campaign raised £4 million – the quickest time in which such a large sum of money had been raised in the history of the Standard and Independent. The funds were given in grants to over 200 charities, with the Standard reporting: “It marks the biggest disbursement to charities from any British news group in response to the cost of living crisis.”

The charities supported and funded were helping the most vulnerable people and ranged geographically across the UK, from Northern Ireland and Scotland to Wales, and England, including London.

The Standard reported on the story of Candice, a diabetic mother who gave the last of her food to her daughter and interviewed countless others affected by the crisis.

Samir Patel, CEO of Comic Relief, said: “As this national emergency intensifies, people need our help now. We are hugely grateful for this opportunity with the Evening Standard and Independent to launch a cost of living appeal and raise urgent funds this winter. From supporting foodbanks to providing warm clothing and energy top up cards, this campaign will deliver a lifeline and ease the pressure for people facing the toughest times of their lives.”

The appeal also received donations from Sainsbury’s, Amazon, British Airways, eBay, the Duke of Westminster, Rausing Foundation, The Barratt Foundation, Neptune Energy, TK Maxx as well as £100,000 from readers.

The campaign was backed by many, with The King, The Princess of Wales, London Mayor Sadiq Khan, Andy Murray, Emma Thompson, David Morrissey, Lenny Henry, Rita Ora, Simon Pegg, performance poet Lemn Sissay, as well as other celebrities and high profile names, all lending their support.