“I work as a Digital Fundraising Officer within Farleigh Hospice’s fundraising team. I’ve been at the hospice for nine years, starting as a fundraising assistant and, more recently, taking on a secondment as project lead for our Buzz in the City Art Trail.
The Farleigh Hospice fundraising team plays a vital role in generating the income needed to provide free, specialist care for people affected by life-limiting illnesses across mid Essex. We support individuals, community groups and businesses in running their own fundraising activities – offering guidance, materials, one-to-one support and inspiration for everything from bake sales and garden parties to sponsored challenges and corporate initiatives. We also organise major annual events, including Walk for Life, the Santa Fun Run and Christmas Tree Recycling.
My day begins by checking our digital fundraising platforms – JustGiving, GoFundMe and others – to see what new supporter pages have appeared. Today, three new participants have signed up for the Maldon Mud Race and we have a tandem skydiver preparing to take on their challenge for Farleigh.
I record each supporter on our database, send out challenge registration forms and make sure they receive the information and encouragement they need to reach their fundraising goals. Next, I check for new registration fees. This morning I spotted one for the Royal Parks Half Marathon from my niece, who is running in memory of her Grandpa (my father-in-law). Moments like this add even more meaning to the work I do.
Late morning, we receive a call from a colleague at another hospice wanting to learn more about our Christmas Tree Recycling campaign. I’m also finalising our 2025/26 event evaluation report, drawing together key learning and recommendations for next year.
Before lunch, I meet with our digital marketing team to plan fundraising content for the week ahead, including both organic and paid social media. After agreeing the schedule, I begin preparing the copy and visuals.
With teammates on leave, I’ve also been helping to finalise our new Bunny Hop event for schools, nurseries and youth groups. This involves refining the fundraising pack and building the JustGiving campaign so everything is ready when our schools partnerships officer returns.
After a quick lunch, I contact all 19 supporters running the Chelmsford Half Marathon for us this weekend. This personal touch is an important part of our supporter journey, helping every runner feel appreciated, supported and aware that we’ll be at the finish line to cheer them on.
My final task in the office is planning our weekly ‘thank you’ round-up for social media. I speak to colleagues to gather standout stories or achievements so we can celebrate the incredible efforts of our supporters. On my way home, I make a quick stop to deliver a Farleigh Hospice technical top to a supporter preparing for a challenge event this weekend.
Before joining Farleigh, I worked in marketing, communications and content roles within professional services in London. Moving into the charity sector was a big shift, but one that felt right from the start. It’s a privilege to support people who want to give something back to the hospice, often after experiencing bereavement or loss.
Hearing their stories and seeing their generosity is incredibly moving and I’m grateful to be part of such a dedicated, passionate team committed to making a difference in our community.”
This article is taken from the latest ‘Heart of Farleigh’ magazine.