A University of Worcester student has raised more than £1,000 for a number of charities during lockdown.
With many charities struggling during the pandemic, Isobel Lines took up the challenge and her efforts have helped a range of organisations, from the NHS to those helping young people with their mental health.
“I was aware that, during lockdown, charities were financially struggling as they weren’t receiving the same amount of income from donations and fundraisers,” said the 19-year-old. “I really wanted to help those charities which I felt were crucial organisations during lockdown, including Papyrus. Mental Health statistics have risen since lockdown so it is essential now more than ever for Papyrus to be there to help.”
The Sports Science student, from Wednesbury, held weekly quizzes during the first month of lockdown through the University of Worcester Equestrian Club, of which she is Chairwoman, raising more than £300 for Beauty With A Purpose and the NHS.
Isobel and her family also hosted Battle of the Game Shows, which raised over £600 for Papyrus - Prevention of Young Suicide, in remembrance of a friend who passed away in school. Altogether she has so far raised £1,200.
Isobel has also been volunteering for the Midlands International Aid Trust, distributing Personal Protective Equipment (face visors) to local care homes and keyworkers, and for Elle For Elle, which provides toiletries to women who have suffered with domestic violence.
This work contributed to Isobel being crowned the new Miss Black Country. She will now go on to represent the area at the Miss England Finals in October. Isobel said she was “beyond overwhelmed” to have won, adding: “I wish to use the title as a platform to normalise mental health and help as many people as possible who have struggled with this, as I have myself at times.”
Isobel has been competing in Miss England for four years but had never previously won a regional title. She first competed for Miss Black Country at 16 years old. In 2019, she reached the Finals after placing in the Top Five in Miss Birmingham. In that time she has raised £6,000 for charity.
Alongside her charity work, Isobel is an equestrian rider, specialising in Showing and has competed at the Horse of the Year Show - the World’s Most Famous Horse Show for eight consecutive years, as well as the Royal International for a decade.