There is a lot to celebrate this year: the launch of our Wrap-Round service, our 25th anniversary year, finalising the refurbishment of both Respite Houses and finally having a date in the diary for when we will resume our residential Respite Breaks (first week of August).

To celebrate our achievements and present our houses in all their glory to some of our most loyal supporters before the children’s return in August, we hosted two small Honeypot Garden parties in July (7th of July in Hampshire, 14th of July in Wales). Due to Covid-19 restrictions, we were unable to invite everyone we would have wanted to, but we did our best to cover a range of individuals and supporting organisations that have aided Honeypot monumentally over the past few years. From trusts and foundations, local club and community supporters, to trustees, corporate partners and school representatives, we were so glad that we were able to give them a lovely Honeypot experience to show our appreciation.

It was a great opportunity for us to give our guests a tour of the beautiful houses and grounds, and show them the improvements and renovation work we’ve been able to do over the last year while the kids were unable to be on site (e.g. replacement plumbing, electrics, refurbishing the bathrooms, redecorating the bedrooms, grounds improvements including the gazebo in Hampshire etc.).

We can all agree that the Hog roast was delicious (along with the entertaining caterers!), and with a range of drinks followed by a wonderful Honeypot anniversary cake, everyone was catered for! Anthony, the Director of Fundraising and Communications, did a brief speech about the challenges of the last 16 months and our plans for the future. It was so lovely to see our guests explore the grounds and see the development that has taken place.

“I write to say how much I enjoyed the garden party today and to thank you and your colleagues for all the hard work that went into organising it. The food was delicious and what a lovely caterer - Honeypot seems to attract lovely, caring people! It was lovely to be able to chat with guests and hear about the developments you've made over the years. I was also very interested and impressed with all the online support you've set up during lockdown; it certainly seems the way forward. The refurbished bedrooms were great too, so colourful, cosy, and inviting.”

-Jane Wilson-Brown from Rotary Club of New Forest.

“I think it went very well and our guests were suitably impressed. The House and Estate looked fabulous, I don’t think I have ever seen the grounds looking so good. Well done everyone.”

-Hugh Whitaker, Trustee

The past year has been challenging, but we are immensely proud of how we have combated various obstacles that we have been faced with. We have come out the other end in such a strong place as a charity and it is owed to the generosity of our supporters, who believed in our work and helped us to be able to continue supporting our young carers. Thank you to everyone who helped make this possible. And everyone who didn’t get a chance to join one of our parties, we hope to see you around very soon.

We hosted two 25th anniversary Garden Parties