Shoosmiths sponsors Heels for Wheels

The serious injury team at Shoosmiths is proud to be the sponsor of Back Up’s new Heels for Wheels campaign.

Aiming to raise funds for the national spinal cord injury charity, the initiative sees dozens of celebrities and people of influence from the worlds of fashion, sport and entertainment – including Kylie Minogue, Nick Jonas and Judi Dench - donating their footwear for the cause.

Launched on 1 March 2021, National Wheelchair Day, the campaign will culminate in a ten-day auction opening 1 April. All bids and donations raised throughout this six-week campaign will go towards Back Up’s amazing work delivering life changing programmes which support people affected by spinal cord injury to live confidently and independently.

Shoosmiths partner Denise Stephens said: “We’re incredibly proud of our relationship with Back Up. We know and can see the real difference they are making to people’s lives.

“This campaign has already been massively successful, capturing the imagination of some the world’s most famous people and is sure to just grow and grow.”

The campaign has been masterminded by Back Up patron, TV presenter and campaigner, Sophie Morgan. Sophie sustained a spinal cord injury aged 18 in a road traffic accident that left her paralysed from the chest down.

“I know first-hand how extraordinary Back Up’s services really are, having benefited from them myself. Their multi-activity courses challenge what’s possible with a spinal cord injury and showed me that I could still lead an active life,” she said.

“All of Back Up’s services are delivered by other people affected by spinal cord injury. They know how challenging it can be to adjust, but they are with you for every part of your journey. I’m thrilled with all the support for Heels for Wheels so far – it’s so exciting and will truly make a difference to this wonderful charity.”

Oscar winner and friend of the charity Olivia Colman said: “Back Up was there for my friend Clair when she was injured 20 years ago, and today Back Up offers a lifeline to anyone affected by spinal cord injury. They are there for people in their darkest hours, providing essential physical and emotional support when needed most. I’m proud to support this campaign.”