Sunflowers Children's Action Group

Plans are underway for one of the most anticipated charity events of the year, as the Sunflowers Charity Ball returns on Saturday 5th September 2026 at the stunning Forest Pines Hotel.

Promising an evening of elegance, entertainment and purpose, the black-tie event will bring the community together for a truly memorable night, all in support of Sunflowers and the vital work it delivers.

An evening to remember

Guests can expect a fabulous atmosphere from the moment they arrive, with a drinks reception followed by a beautifully prepared dinner, live entertainment and plenty of opportunities to dance the night away. The evening will also feature exciting fundraising moments, giving attendees the chance to make a real difference while enjoying themselves.

"This is always such a special night," a member of the Sunflowers team said. "It's about coming together, having a fantastic time, and knowing that every ticket helps us continue supporting those who need us most. We want the room full, great energy, great people, and a real sense of community."

Join us — tickets and sponsorship

Tickets are now on sale, and demand is expected to be high. Local businesses and individuals are also being encouraged to support the event through sponsorship, donations, or by hosting a table.

With its mix of glamour, generosity and good company, the Sunflowers Ball is more than just a night out, it's a chance to be part of something meaningful.

Early booking is strongly advised to avoid disappointment.

For tickets and further information, contact the Sunflowers team at hello@sunflowers.org.uk

In April, several of our families, supported by Sunflower volunteers, took part in a memorable break away at Calvert Lakes Disability Activity Centre.

The children’s smiles, laughter, and sense of joy were unmistakable. Less visible were the challenges many of them face every day, brain tumours, serious heart conditions, and recent or upcoming surgeries. For many families, daily life is shaped by hospital appointments, medication, and the constant reality of living with limitations.

Activities built around what children can do

Children took on activities they’re so often told are out of reach. Zip wires, high ropes, catamaran sailing, canoeing, bushcraft and more, with activities adapted so everyone could take part.

For some, it was the first time leaving the ground on a zip wire, building the courage to take that leap and then wanting to do it all over again. For others, it was time out on the water. Sally, mum to Olivia, shared how “we had an absolutely wonderful day sailing… it was beautiful,” while another described how their child “grabbed every opportunity with both hands and smashed it.”

Evie's story

Evie’s experience captured this perfectly. After being told she is now living with not one but two brain tumours, so many opportunities have been taken away. At home, even simple things like swimming lessons are no longer possible. But here, she took part in everything, zip lining, sailing, climbing, swinging, exploring and, as her mum, Claire shared, “she grabbed every opportunity with both hands and smashed it.” Seeing her smiling through every single adventure meant everything.

Confidence, courage and unexpected moments

There were moments high up in the trees, quieter moments learning bushcraft skills, and simple joys like toasting marshmallows, swimming, and spending time together. Again and again, children pushed past their own expectations. Reggie’s family described watching their child take part in things they “never thought possible” as “emotional and unforgettable,” as their confidence grew day by day.

Feeling included, feeling understood

For some families, the impact ran even deeper. After often feeling left out, Michelle shared that “for once, he felt like he truly belonged,” something they said they would never forget. Leonie’s mum Vicky spoke about how much the time away meant following difficult news, saying they “needed that time more than anything.”

There were also moments of pride, connection, and friendship. Families supported each other, laughed together, and created memories that will last a lifetime. Sally summed it up simply: “Thank you will never be enough.”

The impact of that kind of time is hard to put into words, but it shows in the confidence, the laughter, and the memories created.

More than a break away

This wasn’t just a break away. It was a chance for children to feel included, to build confidence, and to experience things many had been excluded from before. It was a chance for families to feel supported, understood, and not alone.

To everyone who supports us, whether you donate, fundraise, volunteer or simply share what we do, thank you. Experiences like this only happen because of you.

And this is just the beginning.

What's coming next

Next month, we will be welcoming even more families to experience something like this. More opportunities, more memories, and more moments where children are reminded of what they can do.

Because every child deserves that chance.

Sunflowers Children’s Action Group is proud to share the tremendous success of the Cold Water Dip Challenge, which raised a remarkable £1,501 in support of the charity’s vital work.

This inspiring event was conceived, coordinated, and delivered entirely by Wendy Larsen and her sister Ruth. Their dedication and organisational skills ensured the smooth running of the challenge from its inception to its completion, all in aid of Sunflowers. The event was especially meaningful because it celebrated Mila, Wendy’s daughter, who is a cherished member of the Sunflowers family. Mila even braved the cold on some occasions to support her mum and auntie.

The generous support shown in Mila’s honour is a testament to the compassion and commitment of everyone who participated.

Participants in the challenge demonstrated exceptional resolve and a strong sense of community as they braved the cold waters to raise much-needed funds for children facing life-limiting and life-threatening illnesses. The event was not only a test of physical endurance but also a powerful display of empathy and collective purpose.

All funds raised through this challenge will directly support Sunflowers in creating cherished memories for children and their families, as well as providing essential emotional and practical assistance during extremely challenging times.

Sunflowers Children’s Action Group wishes to express its heartfelt thanks to Wendy, Ruth, every participant, donor, and supporter whose efforts and generosity made this fundraising event such a resounding success.