Scaling new heights: Funeral arranger heading to Mount Everest for a good cause

A funeral arranger from Devon is embarking on an extraordinary journey to raise funds for charity. 

Rachel Schofield, 50, will be trekking to Mount Everest Base Camp in November this year. Rachel, who has worked as a funeral arranger for Co-op Funeralcare in Newton Abbot since 2022, will take on the climb not only as a personal challenge, but also to fundraise for the member-owned organisation’s charity partner, Barnardo’s. 

Motivated by the charity’s legacy of helping families and children in need, Rachel sees the trek as an opportunity to raise awareness and funds for its continued work. She has been inspired by the many stories of individuals who have benefitted from Barnardo’s support. 

Rachel’s colleagues at Co-op Funeralcare have played a crucial role in her fundraising journey, showing immense support by donating a variety of items to be sold at car boot sales and tabletop events, which has significantly aided her in reaching her fundraising goal. 

Rachel said: “I have always had a fascination with Mount Everest and the trek to Base Camp has been on my bucket list for a long time. I'm thrilled to now be fulfilling this while also raising much-needed funds for a brilliant charity.  

“My colleagues at Co-op Funeralcare have been instrumental in the success of fundraising so far and I’m incredibly grateful for their generosity, and for the support of the local community too. I hope that the funds raised will be able to make a positive impact for Barnardo’s - this is sure to be a remarkable experience and I can’t wait to see how much we raise.” 

The fundraiser is part of Co-op’s charity partnership with Barnardo’s. Through the partnership, they are collectively aiming to raise £5 million to support 750,000 young people across the UK with their current and future needs, including helping young people and their families with basic needs like access to food, mental wellbeing support and opportunities for the future. 

To contribute to the fundraising for the trek, visit Rachel Schofield’s JustGiving page. 

To find out more about Co-op Funeralcare, Newton Abbot visit Newton Abbot Funeral Home - Co-op (coop.co.uk).