Mental health charity based in Silsoe appeals for knitters to help 'elephant cosies' campaign

A charity that supports people in Bedford is appealing for help with their ‘Easter Elephants’ campaign – here’s how you can get involved.

CHUMS, which is based in Silsoe, provides therapeutic support to children and young people. The charity’s mental health and bereavement services include Trauma Support, Baby Loss Support, a Recreational Therapeutic Service, and more.

Thousands of knitted elephant egg cosies filled with Creme Eggs will be sold to raise funds in the team's Easter initiative, which is based on the elephants in the charity’s logo.

The elephants are being created by volunteer knitters far and wide across the county, by both individuals and knitting groups. The next batch intake date deadlines are January 31 and February 28.

CHUMS is also looking for organisations to take a box of elephants to sell in their shops, pubs, staff rooms, or offices.

India Marshall-Roads, corporate and community fundraising manager, said: "The response to our Easter Elephants Appeal so far has been incredible, I've been blown away by the reception it’s got from the public and local businesses.

“Not everyone can or wants to run a marathon or jump out of a plane to help us, so this has been a fantastic way for many people to easily support a charity that is dear to them. We are grateful to every one of our knitters, sellers, donors, and supporters."

Visit the CHUMS website to sign up for the knitting pattern and to get in contact with the team about selling.