Celebrating 30 Years with our annual Patrons' Club Reception
This week, we were proud to host our annual Patrons’ Club Reception at the iconic Hotel Café Royal as part of our 30th birthday celebrations.
The evening brought together long-standing Patrons alongside new supporters who were learning about Honeypot’s work for the very first time. It was a wonderful opportunity not only to celebrate three decades of impact, but also to welcome new members into our community of committed supporters. Events such as this help us to grow the Patrons’ Club and build the sustained, long-term backing that ensures more children can access Honeypot’s life-changing support.
Guests reflected on how far we have come since 1996 - and, more importantly, on the thousands of children whose lives have been transformed through moments of respite, emotional support and joy.
“For three decades, Honeypot has been a place where children carrying big responsibilities can simply be children. Our Patrons play a vital role in making that possible. Their belief in early intervention and consistent support allows us to create safe, nurturing spaces where confidence grows and anxiety begins to ease. We are deeply grateful for their ongoing commitment as we look towards the next 30 years.”
Throughout the evening, guests heard about the life-changing difference our residential and wrap-around support makes to young carers and children (aged 5-12) facing wider pressures. From our residential breaks and Health and Wellbeing programme to ongoing outreach and practical support for families, the message was clear: early, compassionate intervention can transform a child’s confidence, reduce anxiety, foster a sense of belonging and ultimately broaden their opportunities in life.
We were also proud to premiere a special film, created to mark our 30th year and to shine a light on the children at the heart of our work. The film captures the warmth, safety and encouragement that define a Honeypot break, alongside the measurable impact we see - with positive emotions rising significantly after a stay with us, and anxiety levels falling.
Freddie Porter, Simmi Woodwal, Bernie Porter, John Pocock
“Being part of the Patrons’ Club is about more than financial support - it is about standing alongside these children for the long term. Seeing the impact of Honeypot’s work first-hand is incredibly powerful. Together, we are helping to secure a future where every child who needs Honeypot can access its life-changing support.”
We extend our heartfelt thanks to our corporate partner, Hotel Café Royal, who generously provided the venue and catering free of charge. Their continued partnership enables us to direct even more resources towards frontline services and the children who rely on us.
Finally, thank you to colleagues, volunteers and supporters across the charity whose dedication and care underpin everything we do. Evenings like this are a celebration not just of longevity, but of shared purpose. As we look ahead to the next 30 years, we remain focused on what matters most: creating happy memories and brighter futures for every child who walks through our doors.
If you are interested in joining our Honeypot Patrons’ Club please contact Simmi Woodwal at s.woodwal@honeypot.org.uk.
The Honeypot Children’s Charity is the national charity for young carers, and other children across the UK (aged 5-12) who need additional support. We rely on donations to help us continue running our unique Wrap-Round service supporting young carers. Please consider supporting us in this very special year by making a donation, joining our ‘What’s your 30?’ campaign, or making us your organisation’s charity partner.