22nd February 2008

Holistic Therapy Sessions Help Cancer Charity

A charity initiative by Stourbridge College training partner Body Balance Holistic Training Solutions has resulted in a healthy contribution towards cancer research.

A relaxing head massage for Sonia. Left to right: Isabelle Claire (Therapist), Chris Smart (Bodybalance), Kim Babb (Stourbridge College), Anna Goodman (M&S Commercial Manager) Seated: Sonia Crawley (M&S Department Manager)

A magnificent £475 has been raised by staff at Marks & Spencer, Merry Hill for the Breakthrough Breast Cancer Charity.

The money was raised when holistic therapy company Body Balance gave M&S staff short taster sessions such as Indian head massage, reflexology and aroma therapy.

Staff made donations to Breakthrough Breast Cancer Charity, the UK's leading charity, committed to fighting breast cancer through research, campaigning and education.

Sonia Crawley, M&S Department Manager said: “The run up to Christmas was a very intense time of year for all of our staff and the therapy taster sessions were in recognition of the hard work of everyone over this period. We were delighted to offer them the opportunity to gain an insight into how to relax and ease the pressure of every day life.

“The Breakthrough Breast Cancer charity is supported by the M&S group, staff and customers, so we are thrilled to be able to make this presentation.”

Chris Smart Body Balance Director added: “Working with M&S on this project has been extremely successful, it gave their staff the benefit of trying a variety of therapies and gave our Stourbridge College students a valuable opportunity to work alongside our team of qualified and experienced therapist to gain commercial experience and utilise their training.

“I am particularly pleased that the monies raised are going towards increasing awareness of breast cancer the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the UK.”

Chris Askew, Director of Fundraising at Breakthrough Breast Cancer, said: “Congratulations to the staff at the Merry Hill M&S store and at Body Balance. We are extremely grateful to all those involved for their enthusiasm and support of Breakthrough Breast Cancer. The money raised will help us to continue our vital breast cancer research, campaigning and education work including the work that takes place at our dedicated research centre."