Post Office customers donated more than £2.2 million through branches to the Disasters Emergency Committee’s (DEC) Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal, helping the fundraising campaign secure a Guinness World Record.
The DEC appeal has been recognised as the most money raised by an online charitable appeal in one week, after generating a total of £446.3 million.
Launched in March 2022 following the escalation of the war in Ukraine, the appeal received widespread support across the UK and has now concluded with the publication of the DEC’s Final Programme Report.
Around 4,000 Post Office branches participated in the appeal, with approximately 75 per cent of donations made in cash.
Post Office said the figures highlight the continuing role of face-to-face services and cash in enabling people to support charitable causes, particularly through local branches.
The wider appeal reached more than 10 million people across Ukraine and neighbouring countries. Support included improved access to water and sanitation for more than 1.6 million people, shelter and housing repairs for over 1.2 million people, cash and voucher assistance for more than 427,500 people, and mental health and psychosocial support for more than 167,900 people.
Ross Borkett, financial services director at Post Office, said the record was “a remarkable achievement” and reflected the generosity of people across the UK.
“Post Office was proud to play a part in that effort, helping customers donate more than £2.2 million through our branch network during the appeal,” he said.
“Significantly, around three-quarters of donations made through participating Post Office branches were made in cash. That demonstrates the vital role local branches continue to play in their communities, providing trusted, accessible services and enabling people to support important causes in the way that works best for them.
“This record-breaking fundraising effort shows the real impact that can be achieved when communities come together, and highlights the unique role postmasters and branch teams play in helping make that possible.”