
Tombola has revealed a new partnership with the UK-based charity Breast Cancer Now, through which the operator intends to raise £1 million and inspire one million individuals to regularly check for signs of breast cancer.
The initiative, named the ‘eyes down, check up’ campaign, is designed to educate the public on the symptoms of the disease while simultaneously raising money for Breast Cancer Now.
Citing data from Cancer Research UK, one woman is diagnosed with breast cancer every ten minutes in the UK, while one man receives a diagnosis daily. This is despite YouGov data indicating that 44% of women do not perform regular checks.
Furthermore, a study by Tombola revealed that more than half of its player community had been affected by the disease, either directly or indirectly.
In response, Tombola has collaborated with Breast Cancer Now to create a new tool called ‘Breast Check Now,’ which serves to educate users on symptoms and provide reminders for self-checks. Key signs to be aware of include, but are not limited to:
- Lumps or swelling in the breast, upper chest or armpit area
- Changes in breast size or shape
- Skin changes such as puckering or dimpling
To achieve its fundraising target, the bingo operator has organized a variety of initiatives. These will feature five live ‘Bingo Against Breast Cancer’ games, where £50,000 will be donated. Additionally, a campaign will be held at Westfield Stratford City, where UK television personality and Tombola brand ambassador Josie Gibson will host educational experiences and discussions on the topic.
Expressing her support, Josie Gibson said:
I’m so honoured to be part of Tombola’s partnership with Breast Cancer Now and to support the amazing work they do. I didn’t realise until recently how many of us feel unsure about spotting the signs of breast cancer – me included!
Tombola Managing Director Marion Ryan added:
With half of our community affected by breast cancer – either personally or through someone they love – we are dedicated to standing by them and offering the support they need. This partnership is about more than just raising awareness. It’s about empowering our community with the knowledge, tools and confidence to take action.
Lastly, Breast Cancer Now CEO Claire Rowney said:
Around two-thirds of breast cancers are identified through women checking their breasts and getting any new or unusual change checked by a GP, and we know that regular breast checking is a critical first step to diagnosis. The earlier breast cancer is diagnosed the more likely treatment will be successful. Our ambition is that by 2050 anyone diagnosed with breast cancer will live and live well.
In related news, Tombola recently formed a partnership with Sisal, which will expand its online bingo products into Italy.