A NORTH-East town is joining forces to fundraise for a brighter future.

Police officers, schoolchildren, charities, and businesses are preparing to 'Stand Out for Stanley' on April 30th, to raise money for the Stanley Community Fund.

By dressing up, dressing down and putting the fun into community fundraising, local people hope to put Stanley on the map and celebrate the achievements of recent years.

And to prepare for Stand Out for Stanley Day on April 30th, local businesses are invited to attend a virtual event on April 16th from 10am to 11am to find out more.

Kevan Jones, Labour MP for North Durham will speak, alongside other well-known members of the community, about the future of the town and how people can connect to the Fund.

To date, local PCSOs, North Durham Academy, Stanley Asda, Beamish, Karbon Homes, Just for Women, PACT House, Harlands Accountants, Derwentside Business Network and Stanley Town Council have all pledged to show support and Stand Out for Stanley on April 30th.

Sergeant Terry Archbold from Durham Constabulary said: “The Stand Out For Stanley initiative is a brilliant idea for boosting awareness of the great work that takes place within Stanley and one which we as the local policing team are fully supportive.

“Stanley has a fantastic community spirit and any activity which highlights that and helps bring people together is greatly appreciated.”

To date the Stanley Community Fund has made grants of £190,000 to local groups offering sport for young people, support for those in need and opportunities for local residents. PACT House, Stanley Starz, Stanley Kicks and Just for Women are just some of the beneficiaries.

The Fund was launched two years ago by County Durham Community Foundation, the Office of The Durham Police, Crime and Victims' Commissioner, Stanley Town Council, Kevan Jones and Stanley Area Action Partnership.

Margaret Vaughan, Chief Operating Officer for by County Durham Community Foundation said: “Throughout lockdown, groups in Stanley have soldiered on – looking after the community and tackling issues head on. With long-term funding, and buy-in from the whole town, Stanley has so much to build on and be proud of.”

A representative from Stanley Area Youth Consortium will also speak at the virtual event about the upcoming publication of a report that surveyed 231 young people in the area.

  • To book a free place for the virtual event and find out more about Stand Out for Stanley, please visit: https://tinyurl.com/standoutforstanley