Last week, its ‘#BareYourRoots’ campaign was announced the winner in the category for the ‘Best Innovation in Virtual Events’ at the Charity Virtual Events hosted by agency Fundraising Everywhere. The award was announced via Zoom by pop-star Lily Allen.

Additionally, the charity’s series of Virtual Quizzes was also shortlisted in the category for the ‘Best Stewardship’ award.

The ‘#BareYourRoots’ campaign was launched back in March this year, a week after the UK’s lockdown was announced, which encouraged supporters to embrace their natural hair by growing out their hair roots or do a ‘DIY’ cut after the hairdressers were closed.

Lydia Plews, Senior Business Development Officer at Havens Hospices initiated the campaign back in March and was absolutely thrilled for the campaign to be recognised amongst other charities from across the UK and the world. She said, “When we found out that we had won in this category were we absolutely over the moon and so much hard work went into putting the campaign together quickly at a time when the future of the charity’s fundraising income was uncertain.

“For us, winning over the amazing charities like Longfield Community Hospice, ABF The Soldier’s Charity, Blue Sky Society Trust and Marie Curie in this category and to be shortlisted with charities like Unicef and Versus Arthritis in the ‘Best Stewardship’ category was incredible.

“And of course, a huge thank you to our supporters and all our local hairdressing businesses that helped us promote the campaign – this wouldn’t have been possible without your continuous support and generous donations which help us continue ‘Making every day count’ for everyone we care for.”

The charity is still experiencing a downturn in fundraising income as all public and face to face fundraising has been cancelled or postponed due to the pandemic’s restrictions on social distancing and social gatherings. On average, there has been a 41% drop in donations and sponsorship. However, its care both within the hospices and in patient homes is continuing as children and adults still require the charity’s specialist palliative care.

There are many ways people can help the hospices continue ‘Making every day count’ for the patients and families in their care. Visit www.havenhospices.org.uk to find out more.

Published 2nd November 2020