Matalan has created a soft toy of the NSPCC’s Talk PANTS campaign mascot, Pantosaurus in time for Christmas.
The friendly pants-wearing dinosaur has helped over a million parents talk to their child about keeping safe from sexual abuse, and explain – in age-appropriate language and a catchy song – how their privates are private.
This Christmas, Matalan is supporting the campaign by releasing an exclusive cuddly version of Pantosaurus, to help parents start that important conversation with their child.
Half of the profits from the sale of the cuddly dinosaur will also go directly to the NSPCC.
Matalan is one of the NSPCC’s longest-running partners and has raised more than £10.7m for the charity to date, from in-store fundraising activities, charity balls, and employee fundraising including marathons, skydives and more.
Since 2015, Matalan has sold NSPCC merchandise in its stores and the charity’s latest products – including shopping bags, badges and keyrings, colouring books, crayon sets and lunch bags will mean that 100% of proceeds will go directly to the children’s charity.
Jeff Howarth, director of marketing for Matalan, said they are proud to have such a long-running and successful partnership with the NSPCC.
“We’re sure Pantosaurus will be a firm favourite this Christmas. Helping raise money to support children and young people across the UK is more important than ever,” he added.
Lauren Howard, NSPCC Northern Ireland Corporate Fundraising Executive, said the plush Pantosaurus looks great, and proceeds from it and the sale of bags, books and crayon sets will go towards helping young people who need it most.
Founded in 1985, Matalan’s mission has always been to give families outstanding quality at outstanding prices. 12 million UK families each year trust Matalan with their family budgets – to provide the range, style, quality and value that enable them to run a happy family home.
As of September 2020, Matalan has an impressive 228 UK stores and 36 international franchise stores within Europe and the Middle East, supported with a rapidly growing online channel.
With increased lockdowns happening and the Christmas holidays approaching, the NSPCC expects demand on their services to increase, and want to make sure no child is left to cope alone.
The Pantosaurus soft toy costs £7 and is available to buy online and click and collect, and will also be making a debut appearance in Matalan’s Christmas TV advert, so stay tuned!
Throughout the pandemic, the NSPCC has ensured it is still on the front line for children, supporting those who need Childline and other services most.
To find out more, including how you can help the NSPCC and Childline, go to www.nspcc.org.uk.