Telford couple takes on The Copper Challenge to support PDSA

28 May 2026

Daniel and his partner Katie proved that every penny counts, turning 1p and 2p coins into vital funds for poorly pets in need.

When Daniel and Katie, both from Telford, started noticing copper coins left behind on the ground, they decided to do something about it. They created ‘The Copper Challenge’, a month-long mission to collect as many copper coins as possible and donate the total to PDSA.

Daniel explains, "If the coins were discarded on the floor, those who dropped them must think that there is no value in picking them back up. For us, we saw it as an opportunity to not only collect them for charity, but to also help take pride in our community.”

But the challenge was about more than just fundraising. Daniel and Katie were driven by three meaningful reasons:

• Protecting pets from accidentally swallowing coins left on the ground.
• Encouraging fewer coins to be left behind in public.
• Inspiring others to take pride in keeping their communities clean.

Over the course of a single month, the couple were delighted by just how quickly the pennies added up. In total, ‘The Copper Challenge’ raised an incredible £111.64.

Here’s what Daniel and Katie’s generous donation could go towards:

• £1 provides 10 syringes to administer medication to poorly pets.
• £10 will pay for a test to detect if a dog is poorly with the infection parvo virus.
• £100 will pay towards four vet consultations.

Daniel is a dedicated supporter of PDSA, having volunteered with the Education Team. For Katie, pets have always held a special place in her heart, having grown up around them and finding comfort in their company.

"We are both animal lovers and are truly inspired by the great work that PDSA does”, said Daniel. "We feel that every pet who is poorly should have access to the treatment they deserve. We see pets in the same way we see our families and friends; no one should be left behind.”

PDSA Vet Nurse, Shauna Walsh, said: "We're so touched by what Daniel and Katie have achieved with ‘The Copper Challenge’. It's a wonderfully creative idea that not only raises vital funds for our pet patients but also helps care for the wider community at the same time. Every penny truly does make a difference to the pets we treat, and we're incredibly grateful for their support.”

If you'd like to start your own fundraising challenge for PDSA, you can find inspiration on our fundraising page.