Havens Hospices, which has two hospices based in Prittlewell and Thundersley, has been nominated in the Smiley Charity Film Awards for the fourth-year running. The charity has previously won the Silver Prize in the People’s Choice category for the past three consecutive years, all thanks to the community’s support. 

This year’s nominated film, ‘What Makes a Best Friend for Life’, shares the story of Lucy, one of the charity’s nurses, whose personal experience highlights the impact of Havens Hospices’ care. 

Lucy has spent her career supporting children and families through end-of-life care at Little Havens. However, when her best friend, Bex, who was diagnosed with breast cancer at just 32, became a patient at Fair Havens, Lucy found herself experiencing that care from the other side. 

The local community is now being encouraged to get behind Lucy’s story by voting for the film to help it reach the judges’ round and raise awareness of the charity’s work, so that other families who could benefit from our care know about the support available. 

Amy Dearing, Director of Fundraising and Marketing at Havens Hospices, says, “We’re delighted to have been nominated for the fourth year in a row. Thanks to the incredible support of our community, we have won the Silver People’s Choice Award for the past three years. 

“Storytelling, especially through film, is a powerful way for us to raise awareness of our work and show the real impact our supporters’ donations have on the families we care for. 

“We’re honoured to share the stories of families who rely on our care, and we cannot thank them enough for trusting us with their experiences and highlighting the vital support we provide, often described as a ‘lifeline.’ 

“Please vote for Havens Hospices. It’s free, takes less than a minute, and will mean the world to the charity and the families we support.” 

To vote, visit https://smileycharityfilmawards.com/films/what-makes-a-friend-for-life  

Voting closes on 30th January 2026.

Published 9th January 2026