The event is a fantastic opportunity to discover how MBH’s Conductive Education sessions are transforming lives. Conductive Education is a holistic approach designed to help both children and adults with conditions such as DCD (Dyspraxia), Cerebral Palsy, Stroke, Parkinson’s, or Multiple Sclerosis to build independence, confidence, and joy through movement and connection.

Visitors can meet the expert team, learn about subsidised programmes, and even book a free assessment — which includes three no-obligation sessions. Families, carers, and anyone interested in discovering more about Conductive Education are warmly encouraged to attend.

“Unleash Your Spark with Megan Baker House” is more than just a motto — it’s a promise to help individuals move, laugh, and soar together.

For more information or to book your free assessment, call 01531 633840 or email Sue@meganbakerhouse.org.uk.

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Heartstart Malvern is keen for local businesses to come forward for training as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility programme. By offering training to their staff, employers will be increasing the number of potential lifesavers in the local community. With over 80% of cardiac arrests happening at home, it is important that as many people as possible in the local community know how to do CPR and use a defibrillator.

Since its launch in 2017, Heartstart Malvern has provided its free training to over 7,000 people. The charity is actively training in the local community and in schools. It has set an ambitious target of training over 10,000 people by the end of its tenth anniversary year in 2027 and hopes that more local businesses will come forward to help achieve this target.

The Charity is currently working with Malvern Hills District Council and Community Action Malvern to extend its training provision across the whole of the Malvern Hills area.
For more information about Heartstart Malvern or to book a course for your workplace, please visit www.heartstartmalvern.org.uk or call 07926 615812.

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The change is down to an expansion of services offered by St Michael’s Hospice including expert care and support for those with dementia and other neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s and Motor Neurone Disease.

The Bartestree-based charity, which provides palliative and end-of-life care to those in Herefordshire and its borders, has seen a 133% rise in patient numbers in under a decade, whilst relying on the generosity of the community to plug an annual £10 million funding shortfall.

“The expert free-of-charge care provided to our patients continues day and night, just as it did when we first opened our doors 41 years ago,” said St Michael’s Chief Executive, Matt Fellows.

“Now, thanks to an ever-expanding breadth of services, we’re able to offer more care and support to more people, and the latest care figures reflect that.

“Despite reaching more people though, we’re acutely aware that there are a great many who could benefit from our care but, for whatever reason, we have not yet met. We’re very keen to make contact with them.”

The Hospice’s care is provided on the charity’s Inpatient Unit in Bartestree; to patients visiting the Day Hospice at St Michael’s; and in people’s homes through the Herefordshire Hospice at Home service*.

St Michael’s says at the time of the new figures, earlier this autumn, it was caring for 1,124 people; 568 of whom have a non-cancer diagnosis. The Hospice is independent of the NHS, and receives less than a third of its care funding from the government and statutory sources. Mr Fellows says this shortfall is recouped thanks to the extraordinary backing of the charity’s supporters.

“Over £10 million each year must be raised through the incredible generosity of our community,” he said. “Every pound we receive helps make sure families can access expert, compassionate care when they need it most, without worrying about the cost.”

Mr Fellows has previously called for hospices across the UK to receive a more equitable share of funding from the government, particularly given the increasing challenges caused by National Insurance rises, and increased cost of living.

The latest year-end statistics showed St Michael’s cared for or supported 2,495 people in the 12 months to 31^st March this year.

That figure was up almost 150 on the previous year, and up 1,425 in just eight years – a rise of around 133%

“Hospice care plays a vital role in our community, and we remain committed to working with our partners and supporters to secure sustainable, long-term solutions,” added Mr Fellows.

“Hospices across the UK face ongoing financial pressures that have only been exacerbated by recent economic difficulties.

“This makes the backing of our supporters all the more incredible – and we’re truly grateful for their continued support.”

For more information on the services offered by St Michael’s Hospice, just click the link below, or you can call the Hospice’s 24-hour advice line on 01432 852080.

https://www.st-michaels-hospice.org.uk/how-can-we-help/care-services/hospice-services/

*St Michael’s Hospice and Marie Curie partner with the Herefordshire and Worcestershire Integrated Care Board to provide the Herefordshire Hospice at Home service.

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If you know Santa, or have any connections that know Santa, can you please share this in the hope the man in the red suit can come to my aid again this Christmas! I want to be sure that every child has a present this Christmas

Thank you!

Isaac

Friends of Isaac’s foodbank

www.teamisaac.co.uk

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Earlier this year, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) recognised Vennture’s work for its measurable impact. The charity’s Link Workers act as trusted professionals bridging home and school—mentoring parents, restoring stability, and helping children thrive. The results speak volumes:
• 76% of families report improved child well-being
• 94% see stronger parent–child relationships
• Schools note fewer classroom disruptions
Independent analysis shows a £2.16 return in social value for every £1 invested.
Now, Herefordshire businesses have the opportunity to scale that success. A contribution of £2,500 funds a school-based Link Worker to support a family for six months—creating life-changing impact for families and long-term benefits for employers.
Collectively, £60,000 could transform dozens of lives, strengthen schools, and secure a healthier, more productive local workforce.

To find out which schools are waiting for a Link Worker—or to become a corporate partner—visit vennture.org.uk/support-us/#corporate-partners.

Don’t wait for problems to grow. Be the business that leads change.

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The team kicked off with a CPR drop-in afternoon at Hoople’s Auxilium House offices, where representatives from local businesses, Hoople colleagues, and a group of students from Herefordshire College, came along to learn vital life-saving skills, including how to locate and use a defibrillator.

Later that day, the team attended the Bishop of Hereford Bluecoat School’s Careers Evening, where pupils and parents were given the opportunity to try out CPR and have a go at the 100 chest compressions in a minute challenge.

To round off the month, the team spent the day at Maylord Orchards, in Hereford city centre, to encourage shoppers to have go at learning life-saving techniques. As it was half term, many of those having a go at CPR were children and the team were impressed by how quickly they picked up these vital skills.

Well done to the team for their dedication and hard work in supporting this important campaign, helping to create potential life-savers across the community.

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This marks the third time the charity has received this prestigious accolade, having previously won in 2022 and 2024. The result places Midlands Air Ambulance Charity firmly in the top quartile for employee engagement, reflecting its ongoing commitment to fostering a workplace culture where people feel empowered, supported, and proud to contribute.

The Outstanding Workplace Award celebrates organisations that excel in motivating and engaging their teams, creating environments where individuals feel valued, connected, and aligned with a shared mission.

Hanna Sebright, Chief Executive Officer at Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, commented: “We are thrilled to be recognised once again as an Outstanding Workplace. This award is a testament to the passion and dedication of our team, and to the culture we’ve built together — one that puts people and purpose at the heart of everything we do.”

When asked “What is the best thing about working for Midlands Air Ambulance Charity?”, staff shared heartfelt reflections:

• “Working for an organisation which cares about patients and employees alike.”
• “The positive shared culture of the organisation where everyone is aiming to achieve the best for patients.”
• “Being surrounded by a positive workforce, all driven to do what is best for the organisation.”
• “Being one big happy family — teamwork every time. You see our helicopter or critical care car and think I made that mission possible and helped save a life today. So rewarding.”

Midlands Air Ambulance Charity continues to lead by example in the third sector, demonstrating that a strong internal culture is key to delivering life-saving services across the region.

For more information about Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, visit midlandsairambulance.com and follow the organisation on social media.

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On Sunday 7th December 2025, runners in Santa suits will set off from Wolverley Memorial Hall for the very first time. The beautifully varied route takes in scenic canal paths, countryside views, and — for 10K participants — a special moment as they pass by KEMP Hospice itself. It’s a powerful reminder of the reason behind the run: raising vital funds for local people facing life-limiting illness and bereavement.

There are three routes to choose from: a timed 10K, a 5K, and a 1K Kids’ Santa Dash. The event is open to all ages and abilities, whether you’re running solo, bringing the whole family, or jogging alongside a festive four-legged friend.

Wolverley Memorial Hall will host a day full of festive fun. Visitors can enjoy KEMP’s Christmas retail stand, craft activities for children, glitter face painting and refreshments from the fantastic Community Café, including hot drinks and breakfast sandwiches. Spectators will have plenty of space to relax and enjoy the atmosphere, with live entertainment and music throughout the day, hosted by Dicky Dodd on the soundstage.

Graham Wallis, chairperson of the Wolverley Memorial Charitable Trust, said “We’re absolutely thrilled to be hosting the Santa Fun Run this year. It’s such a brilliant event that brings the whole community together. To see the Wolverley Memorial Hall and grounds filled with Santas, laughter and festive spirit is going to be something truly special.”

Funds raised from the event go directly to supporting the work of KEMP Hospice, providing essential care for patients and families across the Wyre Forest.

Early bird entry is now open, with discounted prices available for a limited time. Sign up today via the KEMP Hospice website www.kemphospice.org.uk/santa-fun-run or by scanning the QR code on event materials.

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This year’s festive range features new additions of a star shaped key ring, a tea towel and shopping bag featuring a custom designed map of the charity’s operating area showing local landmarks, and a bobble hat.

Supporters will also find fresh designs of the charity’s ever-popular mug, notebook, and children’s socks, all showcasing an aerial view of the charity’s new H145 helicopter.

No festive collection would be complete without the charity’s much-loved Christmas cards which feature beautifully designs with heartfelt messages, offering a meaningful way to share the joy of the season with loved ones.

Emma Wood, head of fundraising and engagement at Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, said: “The festive season is a magical time of year and we’re thrilled to offer a range of affordable products to help us raise vital funds for our lifesaving missions.

“Every purchase directly supports emergency missions in your local area, making a real difference and helping to save lives this Christmas.”

To help save lives this Christmas, and explore the full festive range, visit: https://shop.midlandsairambulance.com/

Key items from the festive range will be stocked in the charity’s high street shops as well as online. Supporters can continue to donate their unwanted pre-loved items in the run up to, and during, the festive season at any of its shops.

For supporters who prefer not to shop online, orders can also be placed by calling the charity’s head office at 0800 8 40 20 40.

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Since being founded in 2018, Get Up Give Back has become an impactful annual event led by Property Entrepreneurs, and through challenges they’ve raised £107,297 to support Midlands Air Ambulance Charity and other organisations.

Last year (1 April 2023 to 31 March 2024), cardiac arrests accounted for nearly a third of the charity’s missions. The survival rate for an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest is less than ten per cent, yet with immediate bystander intervention, survival rates can double or even triple.

For people like Colin Pearson from Wolverhampton, this knowledge is invaluable, as it saved his life. Colin suffered a cardiac arrest on a routine bus journey, and thanks to the quick thinking and CPR skills of fellow passenger, Mrs Holmes, Colin survived.

“She saved my life, and I can’t thank her enough! The stars aligned that day with Mrs Holmes being on the bus, the Automated External Defibrillator (AED) being near to where the bus stopped, to the field close by, allowing the aircrew to get close to the scene.

“I’m so grateful to her, Midlands Air Ambulance Charity and everyone who helped me that day. It’s given me a new outlook on life, and I’m enjoying every minute of it!” Said Colin.

To commemorate Restart a Heart Day, Midlands Air Ambulance Charity is promoting CPR awareness and offering 50% off its Lifesaver CPR and defibrillator training course for 1,000 delegates, helping more people gain the confidence and skills to act in a cardiac emergency.

Emily Browne, head of education & training at Midlands Air Ambulance Charity added: “CPR is a vital skill that everyone should have the chance to learn. Having the confidence to respond swiftly and calmly in a medical emergency can make all the difference before we arrive on scene. Those first few minutes following a cardiac arrest are critical, and early intervention can greatly increase the likelihood of survival.”

The charity is encouraging everyone in the communities it serves to take action and become potential lifesavers, just like Mrs Holmes, whose quick thinking saved a life.

Use code LIFESAVER for 50% off and book your space now. https://www.midlandsairambulance.com/education/first-aid-courses/Lifesaver-Cosford

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