STORY
NEWS
WE ARE BEAMS MARKS 30 YEARS WITH FUNDRAISING EVENTS PROGRAMME
KENT AUTHOR PRESENTS BOOK PROCEEDS TO CHARITY
Local charity We Are Beams has announced a year-long programme of fundraising events to mark its 30th anniversary, inviting supporters to take part in challenges throughout 2026.
The programme will launch on 26 March with a Charity Golf Day, followed by a‘ Climb Up the O2’ challenge on 28 March. Further events including mud runs, cycling challenges, marathons and skydiving will take place through to September with additional dates and activities set to be confirmed.
We Are Beams supports disabled children and their families across
Kent, delivering a wide range of services designed to reduce isolation, enhance mental wellbeing and provide vital respite. These include family advice, short breaks and Dragon’ s Retreat respite, as well as brokerage and payroll services.
Every year, We Are Beams must raise £ 2.5 million to continue delivering essential care to more than 500 families who rely on its support. The charity’ s 30th anniversary celebrations aim not only to bring communities together and raise awareness, but also to help secure the funding needed to continue this life-changing work.
Local historian and author Bob Ogley has presented a £ 1,000 donation to the Mayor of Sevenoaks’ chosen charities: Sevenoaks Area Youth Trust and Citizens Advice in North and West Kent.
Bob generously donated these funds from the proceeds of his latest book, The Story of Knole Park, a fascinating and detailed account of the history of one of Sevenoaks’ most well-known landmarks.
The book was officially launched late last year at a special mayoral fundraising event held at Knole, where Bob delivered a heartfelt and inspiring talk, sharing highlights from his book.
“ My sincerest thanks to Bob for his very generous donation to my charities,” said the Mayor of Sevenoaks, Cllr Tony Clayton.“ His book, The Story of Knole Park, is an inspiring tale of local history, told from the heart by someone who knows every inch of this extraordinary piece of our heritage.”
SOUTH EAST CAREGIVER OF THE YEAR AWARD WINNER ANNOUNCED
A caregiver from Canterbury has been recognised with a major regional honour after consistently demonstrating compassion, calm leadership and dedication to her clients and team.
Eliz Hussein, from care provider Visiting Angels, has been named Caregiver of the Year for the South East at their national conference, celebrating the exceptional care she delivers and the difference she makes to the lives of her clients.
“ Eliz truly embodies everything we stand for at Visiting Angels,” said managing director Darryl Lahner.“ Recently, she had a client experiencing significant medical distress and helped reassure his daughter during a very difficult moment. Not only did she calm the situation, she also drove them to the hospital, waited with them until he was admitted and ensured his daughter arrived home safely.”
When talking about what it meant to win, Eliz explained:“ I’ m very proud to say that the award was a big milestone for me. I was so happy- it felt like a win not just for me, but for us as a team. I’ m very happy to be part of my team and part of Visiting Angels in general.” www. insidekent. co. uk • 193