Last month, we officially kicked off 2026 with our annual company event and we couldn’t have asked for a better setting than the Coppa Club in Streatley. Bringing together colleagues from across the business, the day was filled with updates, reflections, and shared ambitions for the year ahead. As always, the focus was on connection: hearing from teams across Macbeth, celebrating achievements, and aligning around the goals that will shape the next twelve months.
A highlight of our Kick off was the live vote for our Charity of the Year. An interactive moment that gave everyone the opportunity to have their say and support a cause close to their heart. This year’s shortlist featured an inspiring range of Thames Valley charities, all nominated by Macbeth team members in recognition of the incredible work they do in our local communities.
After an incredibly close contest, we’re delighted to announce that Helen & Douglas House has been chosen as our Charity of the Year for 2026.
About Helen & Douglas House
Based in East Oxford, Helen & Douglas House holds a remarkable place in history. Established in 1982 by Sister Frances Dominica, Helen House became the world’s first children’s hospice, pioneering a model of compassionate care that has since inspired more than 50 similar hospices across the UK and beyond.
The charity was created in response to the story of a young girl named Helen, who suffered severe brain damage following an emergency operation. After leaving hospital, Helen was cared for at home, where her family formed a close bond with Sister Frances. Recognising both the emotional and physical strain the family faced, Sister Frances began offering respite care, a gesture that grew into the vision for a dedicated, homely hospice for children with life limiting conditions.
From that idea, Helen House and later Douglas House were born.
Today, Helen & Douglas House supports families caring for terminally ill babies and children, offering round the clock care along with warmth, dignity, and emotional support. Their hospice isn’t just a place for specialist medical care; it’s a space filled with comfort, laughter, and moments of joy. It’s where families can create precious memories together, whether they’re spending a child’s final days or weeks in a supportive environment, or sharing meaningful time over several years.
Why Helen & Douglas House matters
Throughout our selection process, we heard powerful stories from colleagues who have experienced the charity’s care firsthand. One testimony that deeply moved the team came from Lisa Harper, who shared:
“Helen & Douglas House gave myself and my daughter time to spend with my son, Byron, after he passed. My worst fear was him being alone when we weren’t there, but the amazing staff at Helen & Douglas House would sit with him until I returned, meaning he was never alone for long periods of time. It was such a comfort to my whole family, and we will be forever grateful.”
Stories like Lisa’s highlight the profound difference Helen & Douglas House makes to families during the most difficult moments imaginable. Beyond expert medical care, they provide something truly priceless; reassurance, compassion and the comfort of knowing no family faces loss alone. It’s this deeply human impact that makes their work so vital, and why we are proud to support them throughout 2026.
Building on two years of momentum
The Macbeth team and Charity Committee have shown incredible energy and enthusiasm over the past two years while supporting Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice, our Charity of the Year during 2024 and 2025.
From sponsored walks and bake-offs to quiz nights and community events, the team has raised not just funds but awareness, strengthening our connection to causes that matter. You can revisit our timeline of favourite moments in our blog, “Supporting Alexander Devine: Our Charity of the Year Since 2024.”
We’re excited to carry that momentum into 2026 as we begin our new partnership with Helen & Douglas House. Our Charity Committee will continue to lead fundraising initiatives and volunteer days throughout the year, helping us make a meaningful impact and deepening our support for our chosen charity.
Together, we look forward to another year of purpose, partnership and positive change.
A message from our HR Manager
“This partnership with Helen & Douglas House means so much to us as a team. Their pioneering approach to children’s hospice care has transformed the way families are supported during the most challenging times, creating space not only for expert medical care, but for compassion, comfort and lasting memories.
Supporting Helen & Douglas House reflects who we are as a business. We are attentive to the needs of our community, committed to supporting credible and impactful causes, and driven by the energy and entrepreneurial spirit of our people. Securing this partnership allows us to channel that passion into meaningful action.
Over the coming year, we’re excited to work closely with the charity by raising funds, volunteering our time and building awareness. Giving back isn’t simply an initiative for us; it’s a responsibility we embrace and a commitment we’re proud to uphold.” Sian Barrett, HR Manager.
How you can support
If you’d like to learn more about Helen & Douglas House, explore ways to donate, or find out how your business or community group can get involved, we encourage you to visit their website or support one of their upcoming fundraising activities.
Together, we can make a real difference for local children and families who need compassionate care during the most challenging moments of their lives.
We’re always happy to help, so don’t hesitate to call or email
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