Peterborough-based charity launches #mugshot selfie campaign as it appeals for donations to continue lifesaving research

With coffee shops and cafes closed due to the coronavirus pandemic, many people cannot indulge their usual caffeine habits with a takeaway hot drink.

The #mugshot campaign helps Kidney Research UK continue its vital work to find better treatments for kidney patients who are at high risk if they develop coronavirus.

Over the past week dozens of kidney patients, researchers and charity supporters including radio and dancing star Debbie McGee and TV and film actor Lucy Davis have posted photos of themselves enjoying a hot drink at home and pledging their support, making donations to Kidney Research UK to keep research going in these challenging times.

More than 60,000 people on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn have seen the campaign so far.

Mae Smith, a kidney patient and community and events fundraiser at the charity, said: “It is so amazing to see all staff and supporters getting involved in the campaign so passionately to keep research going.

“The research funded by the charity provides hope to a lot of kidney patients, like me, who are uncertain about their future with the disease. The #mugshot campaign shines a light on the commitment of both the charity and its supporters to keep this incredible research going and, ultimately, keep that hope alive for kidney patients. We would love to see lots more people involved.”

Kidney Research UK is committed to funding some of the best renal researchers across the country in the hope of finding new and better treatments – and ultimately a cure - for those living with kidney disease. Three million people in the UK have kidney disease, although one million of those are unaware they have the condition.

The charity is encouraging as many people as possible to take part in its #mugshot campaign so that it can continue its research now and longer term.

To get involved, upload a selfie at home with your favourite mug on social media using the hashtags #mugshot and #keepresearchgoing. In the post, explain the reason for taking part in the campaign and nominate three friends or family to continue the challenge. Tag in Kidney Research UK so the charity can share your pledge with everyone.

You can donate the cost of your weekly coffee take-outs to https://kidneyresearchuk.org/support/donate/.