NSPCC denies rumour of 5m agency review

The NSPCC is vigorously denying that it has started to contact advertising agencies ahead of a statutory review of its 5m advertising business.

This is despite evidence that agencies are being contacted by the NSPCC’s head of advertising and brand, Chris Greenwood, who declined to comment.

The incumbent, Saatchi & Saatchi, has held the business for almost 20 years and was most recently reappointed after a review in 1999 after pitching against Court Burkitt and WCRS (MW November 25, 1999).

The NSPCC’s direct marketing agency, WWAV Rapp Collins, could find its way on to any pitch list as, increasingly, the NSPCC has handed both direct response television briefs and brand projects to the agency.

Over the years, Saatchi & Saatchi has created a number of hard-hitting ad campaigns for the charity. Last year, a television campaign featuring an animated child being beaten by his father attracted 127 complaints to the ITC, although the complaints were rejected.

The charity has also been criticised for focusing too much of its resources on campaigning at the expense of its advice facilities. One of its centres was strongly criticised during the inquiry into the death of abused child Victoria Climbia.

The charity has always attracted high-profile corporate partners, such as Microsoft.

This week, it emerged that Hovis is launching a year-long partnership with the charity to raise 1m through internal fundraising and on-pack promotions. The first promotion offers consumers the chance to audition for a place on a pop record that will be released later on this year.