How a Leamington woman raised money for charities while also supporting small businesses

A woman from Leamington has been helping raise money for charities while also supporting small businesses.

Hannah Buist, who is 35, runs a small craft business called Paint My Name.

Throughout the year Hannah has been taking fundraising challenges, which have also helped to promote other small businesses.

She said: "I run a small craft business called Paint My Name, selling personalised paint and peel canvases and cards for children.

"I’ve been running it for two years, it’s mostly a hobby but it’s growing slowly.

"I was inspired to do something as I am passionate about raising money for charity, and have also taken the opportunity to support small businesses on Instagram.

"In July, my husband and I ran 150 miles between us as part of the Run for Dementia challenge.

"Alongside this, I ran a competition with other small businesses on Instagram, with 50 prizes donated. In total I raised £1,218 for Alzhiemer’s UK.

"In November, I ran 5k every day for 30 days to raise money for Zoe's Place Baby Hospice and Young Minds.

"Alongside this, I ran a competition with other small businesses on Instagram, this time with 80 prizes donated. In total I raised £1,145 - split between the two charities."

Hannah said took on the challenges because she wanted to do something to help charities but also help small businesses.

She said: "I’ve always thought it important to raise money for charity.

"This year, with so many events cancelled, fundraising has been hit hard.

"I’m also passionate about supporting small businesses, and this seemed like a perfect way to do both of these things.

"The physical challenges have also been something positive to focus on during a difficult year."

Hannah is also looking to continue what she started but is also looking to engage more businesses.

"I am going to do another physical challenge in March - this time to raise money for Leukaemia Care UK," said Hannah. "Alongside it this time, rather than a competition, I’m going to try something new.

"On Instagram I have set up @small.biz.showcase and I will ask small businesses to pledge something to the charity.

"It could be the proceeds of the sale of one item, or a percentage of profits across the month, whatever they like.

"Then the page will work like an online catalogue, where people can buy items to support the small businesses, and also the charity.

"I’m hoping that if the showcase idea works well on Instagram I can do this on an ongoing basis - so select a charity for that month, ask small businesses to pledge something, then promote the page and help out the businesses whilst supporting charities.

"If anyone has a small business and would be interested in helping raise money for Leukaemia Care UK in March then follow @small.biz.showcase on Instagram for more information."