A tongue-in-cheek event that sees business bosses thrown in “jail” to raise money for Derian House Children’s Hospice is back – and the charity is on the hunt for new prisoners!
Bail Me Out will see criminals banished to the cells of Shepherds’ Hall Ale House in Chorley, only to be released once they have raised £999 in bail money.
Charged with make-believe crimes, such as pinching all the office treats, making bad jokes, or setting up meetings that could have been emails – the prisoners will be issued with their uniform for the day and given access to only their phones and laptops to help them raise enough to break out.
Last year, 13 Lancashire bosses were thrown behind bars and raised an incredible £21,000 for the children and families of Derian House.
As well as fundraising, the prisoners are also set challenges and fun activities at the day-long event, which will take place on Friday, 29 September.
Nicola Stevenson, Director of Link Contracting Services, took part in last year’s event. She said: “I got to do something crazy with people I’ve never met before. We had an absolutely brilliant day. It was such a laugh.
“It really touched me to see everyone come together to support the charity. Supporting Derian house has been an eye-opener. As a parent, you never know what is going to happen. To know that there is a local hospice there to take the pressure off families with poorly children is incredible and reassuring.”
Mark Williams, Group Managing Director for CPM Packaging, said: “I had no real expectations when I signed up – but on the day we had a ball! It was brilliantly organised – challenging but fun and with like-minded people with the sole concentration to help and support a charity that goes above and beyond. It was a brilliant experience and one that everyone should take up – get yourself signed up!”
Ellie Smith, Community Fundraiser at Derian House, said: “Our Bail Me Out event is always a lot of fun. It’s great to see big bosses come together, have a laugh, and raise money for Derian families. Whatever your crime, you’ll have fun doing your time!
“While care is free for families, it will cost £6million to run services at Derian House in 2023. We rely on the kindness of our supporters for every 70p in £1 – including our convicts!”
