During December we have enjoyed attending a number of events hosted by charities in the sector. Now more than ever, charities need support, so it is lovely to be able to get involved and celebrate the wonderful work that they do.
Child Bereavement UK Carol Service
This was an evening that was both truly moving and magical (in equal measure). The annual carol service at Holy Trinity Brompton, London, held by Child Bereavement UK was a star studded occasion. Mary Berry, Michael Rosen, and Martin Freeman were amongst those who read, sang and spoke in memory of their loved ones.
Music was a central part of the evening, with the enchanting voices of the Ludgrove School Chapel Choir ringing out through the church, and the Red Hot Strings, violinists Sarah and Lisa, providing a change of tempo. The Three Brewers, a mother and daughters trio, sang a hauntingly beautiful version of Eric Clapton’s ‘Tears in Heaven’, followed by singer and musician Silas Armstrong, whose moving song was inspired by the death of his 3 year old son Teddy.
One of the most emotional moment of the evening was when a mother spoke about the sudden death of her 17 year old son, Raphael, on the school sports field earlier this year. It was clear that Child Bereavement UK has been, and continues to be, a lifeline in the darkest of times. Her raw and powerful words left us all in no doubt about the need to ensure that charities like Child Bereavement UK continue to thrive.
Thank you to John Adams for inviting us along to this most memorable and moving evening. whiteballoon was delighted to be one of the many who lit candles in memory of those we have loved and lost and to raise funds for Child Bereavement UK.
The Good Grief Trust National Grief Awareness Week and ‘Shine a Light’ Awards
The Good Grief Trust’s ‘National Grief Awareness week’ saw buildings around the country lit up in orange. We were very grateful to Hampshire County Council for once again flooding the beautiful Andover Guildhall with orange lights. In the same week, a wonderful range of fundraising events were held around the country by their many supporters.
On Sunday 8th December, the Good Grief Trust held their first ‘Shine a Light’ awards and fund-raising luncheon in recognition of those who have gone above and beyond in helping and support the bereaved in their local communities. The Good Grief Trust is one of whiteballoon’s nominated charities and so we were delighted to support them and to be there to cheer on and congratulate the many individuals whose invaluable work makes so much difference. Thank you to Linda Magistris and her team at the Good Grief Trust for such an enjoyable and inspiring day.
Royal Trinity Hospice ‘Dedicate a Bauble’ in Memory of a Loved One
It was great to catch up with the team from Royal Trinity Hospice (RTH) London in November to hear about their plans for the festive season. Their ‘Dedicate a Bauble’ campaign enables family and friends to name a bauble on the hospice’s Christmas tree in memory of a loved one. whiteballoon is delighted to be a RTH ‘Local Business Hero’ and we look forward to continuing to support their wonderful work in 2025 and beyond.
How We Can Help
These are just a few of the charities around the UK that work tirelessly to bring hope, comfort, guidance and support to people who are living with life-limiting conditions and their families, or who are bereaved or grieving. These organisations need support, not only at Christmas time but throughout the year. There are so many ways to help, whether it is through volunteering, holding or attending fund raising events, or making donations.
We look forward to continuing to highlight their work, and that of the many other charities in this sector, throughout 2025.