Comic Relief is no laughing matter for call centre volunteers

More than 100 staff at npower’s call centre in Rainton Bridge will be giving up their own time to handle calls for Comic Relief this Friday evening.

The centre will have more than 70 dedicated phone lines in operation, taking donations throughout the entire live event.

The firm supported the charity for its last telethon two years ago and last year handled more than 1,200 calls from members of the public donating to its partner appeal, Sport Relief.

Chris Thewlis, domestic customer services director at npower, said: “I am enormously pleased that our office in Houghton will be supporting Comic Relief for another year.

“We supported this great cause two years ago and we are hoping that this time round will be as rewarding as the last.

“I know all the npower volunteers, even after a full day on the phones, are both proud and excited to be involved.

“We’re expecting busy phone lines and I know that our teams are planning to show their commitment with a whole lot of fun activities planned throughout the evening.”

Contact centre advisor Samantha Tunney is one of the staff taking part: “I can’t wait for Red Nose Day,” she said.

“I’m excited to have the opportunity to take part and help to raise funds for such a fantastic cause. It’s a long night but I’ve heard great things from colleagues who have participated in the past and there are rumours there’ll be face-painting and pizza to keep us going.”

Red Nose Day volunteering is part of npower’s policy of allowing employees to choose their volunteering, charity and fundraising causes.

Since 1985, Comic Relief has raised more than £1billion. That money has helped, and is helping, people facing a range of challenges, both at home in the UK and across the world.

For more information, please visit: www.comicrelief.com