The charity has provided expert care and support for people facing incurable illness and bereavement in north east Essex for four decades, with the help and generosity of the community giving donations, volunteering, fundraising, shopping, playing Your Hospice Lottery, and leaving gifts in Wills. 

Gemma Zweck, chief commercial officer at St Helena Hospice, said: 

“St Helena’s 40th anniversary isn’t just about looking back; it’s about securing the future. 

“The hospice sector is facing challenges like never before. Rising costs and growing demands mean our ability to care for more than 4,200 local people each year is under pressure. But with support from our community, we can continue delivering outstanding end of life care to all who need it, when they need it. 

“This milestone year is packed with exciting opportunities to support St Helena while having fun and connecting with others. 

“Joining in our exciting calendar of fundraising events, taking on a personal challenge or involving your workplace in initiatives such as payroll giving or volunteering days; however you choose to celebrate with us, your involvement will help local people live with dignity and comfort at the end of life.”

Here are some of the activities people can join in with to support St Helena Hospice this year:

•    40 in 40 set a personal challenge and raise £40 between now and Wednesday 12th March

•    Ruby Raffle enter by Thursday 13th March for the chance to win a cash prize

•    Hero Run, sponsored by Jones & Whymark, Sunday 23rd March, Colchester Sports Park, dress as your hero for a 2km family fun or take on a 5km or 10km run

•    Pier to Pier, sponsored by Pickering, Sunday 18th May 2025, walk 7 or 14 miles between Clacton and Walton Pier

•    £40 Challenge, sponsored by Birkett Long, starts Friday 23rd May, local businesses are tasked with turning a £40 stake into as much cash as possible

•    Dedham Wine 5k, Sunday 13th July, walk or run through the scenic Dedham Vineyard before enjoying a glass of wine, food and entertainment

•    Tendring Community Fun Day, Saturday 26th July, Great Bentley Green

•    Colchester Community Fun Day, Saturday 2nd August, Mile End Sports Ground

•    Half Marathon, Sunday 7th September, Harwich, run 13.1 miles in an official UK athletics affiliated race

•    Midnight Walk, Saturday 27th September, Colchester, night-time walk with an 80s theme

•    Volunteer at a St Helena Hospice event or in a role year-round

More ways to be involved in supporting St Helena Hospice in its 40th year.