2025 Annual Review
“2025 has been an extraordinary year for Abigail’s Footsteps. We have achieved so much together: delivering essential training to over 1,200 healthcare professionals across the country, providing specialist counselling to more than 100 families, and supplying Abi cooling cots to 84 hospitals, funeral directors and hospices. The charity continues to flourish and strengthen its leadership, welcoming new Trustees and team members as we look to the future. My sincere thanks go to everyone who has supported us throughout the year – your dedication and generosity empower us to continue making a real difference to bereaved families. With your ongoing support, there is so much more we can achieve together.”
“When we launched the charity in 2010, just a year after losing Abigail, my wife Jo and I had a vision to make a meaningful difference, although we could not foresee the journey ahead. This year marks a significant milestone: 16 years since Abigail’s birth and 15 years since the charity’s founding. As we reflect on those early days, it is clear that the impact we have achieved has been truly meaningful.
These accomplishments would not have been possible without the steadfast love and support of our family, friends, dedicated charity colleagues, and the many fundraisers who have stood by us over the past fifteen years. We are profoundly grateful for your exceptional generosity and commitment to our cause. Thank you for helping us bring our vision to life.”
“At a recent meeting David said that in an ideal world our charity would not be needed. Unfortunately, in the real world it is and our small team continues to work tirelessly to support parents and families at an incredibly difficult time in their lives. However, this would not be possible without the generous donations and fundraising of parents, families and friends – we are extremely grateful. As we review our strategy at the end of its first year, we continue to evolve to help support baby-loss in our communities.”
Celebrating Our Co-Founder, David Ward MBE
At Abigail’s Footsteps, we are immensely proud to celebrate a truly remarkable milestone for our charity and our community. Our dedicated and compassionate Co-Founder, David Ward, has been recognised with an MBE for his outstanding services to bereaved parents.
His work, grounded in personal loss, has become a beacon of hope for so many and his MBE is a fitting recognition of David’s dedication, compassion, and vision. David’s commitment has not only transformed the way bereaved parents are supported but has also raised awareness about the importance of sensitive and compassionate care in hospitals and communities throughout the country.
David said: “I gladly accepted the award on behalf of myself and Jo, who equally deserves the recognition. This accolade also represents acknowledgment for all the bereaved families we have supported over the years. It honours the memory of our daughter Abigail, and recognises the exceptional, groundbreaking work our charity has accomplished over the past 15 years.”
On behalf of everyone at Abigail’s Footsteps, our supporters, and the countless families whose lives have been touched by David’s work, we extend our heartfelt congratulations and deepest gratitude. This honour belongs not only to David but to every family who has bravely shared their story and every supporter who has helped us in our mission. Together, we will continue to strive for a future where no bereaved parent feels alone, and every family receives the care and compassion they deserve.
Thank you to the companies and organisations who chose Abigail’s Footsteps as their Charity of the Year for 2025.
Core Cleaning Services, London Ambulance Golf Society, Malling Lodge Freemasons, Medway Ladies Darts League and NHS Property Services.
Daryl Raveneau, Estates Delivery Partner (Kent and Medway) said, “The NHSPS Community Fund is designed to support local charities and community groups across England. All our colleagues vote for which charity they would like to support for the coming 3 years. Our focus is on making a positive difference in the communities we serve. Our colleagues across Kent and Medway came together and chose Abigail’s as our charity partner. The incredible work and support that Abigail’s provides for families not just locally but nationwide was a key factor in our decision. It is our mission to raise awareness, drive engagement and support their cause in every way we can.”
NHS Property Services employees volunteered for a morning at Rochester Cathedral, planting bulbs for the first phase of an exciting new project, that will be completed next year. So far, the team have fundraised with activities including a bake sale, quiz night and a Tough Mudder.
London Ambulance Golf Society raised £700 for Abigail’s Footsteps at their charity golf day.
Andy Heward said, “The Annual London Ambulance Golf Open took place in August. Although the day is a competitive competition, there is always a charity aspect to it, looking to help others in need. This year’s chosen charity was Abigail’s Footsteps. Attendees raised £700 to help this incredible cause to support bereaved families and most importantly raise awareness of Abigail’s Footstep’s work with an audience that will think about them in their day-to-day work and talk to friends and family about.”
We’re proud to welcome…
Sue Plummer has joined our board of Trustees, bringing her vast experience as Education and Research Lead.
Sue said, “It is a huge privilege and honour to be a Trustee of Abigail’s. This is an incredible charity where everyone works tirelessly to support parents and families. As a Trustee, my role is to help ensure Abigail’s achieves its aspirations by bringing my skills and experience to the Board.”
Lucy Kemp, who has joined as Fundraising Co-ordinator.
Lucy said “I am delighted to join Abigail’s Footsteps. It’s an honour to be able to become part of a charity that provides ongoing support for families during incredibly difficult times. I am really excited to work alongside this wonderful team and play a part in making a meaningful difference.”
We are delighted to announce that Emma and Niall have been asked to be Charity Ambassadors and will represent Abigail’s Footsteps in the North of England. Emma and Niall said, “We are honoured to have been asked to be Ambassadors for Abigail’s. It is such an amazing charity for bereaved parents and a charity very close to our hearts following our own trauma of losing our baby boy. We will continue to help to raise awareness and funds wherever possible to help families who are faced with such a horrible situation.”
2025
We were delighted to start the year with a generous £1,500 donation from the Kent Executive Club. This significant contribution reflects the ongoing commitment of local organisations to supporting our mission. The cheque was formally presented by Chair Martin Kingsman and accepted on our behalf by Susan Robinson, Chair of Abigail’s Footsteps Board of Trustees. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Kent Executive Club for their valuable support, which will be instrumental in helping us continue our vital work.
Graham Sowerby held a Christmas fundraiser in aid of Abigail’s Footsteps and said, “I am trying my best to raise awareness for Abigail’s Footsteps as they looked after my nephew and his partner when their baby was born asleep. It made a big difference to their grieving process as they had access to an Abi Cooling Cot so they could spend time with their baby. I really want to help other families going through very sad times. Your support can make a huge difference to families so please help by donating to this charity.”
Bereaved mother Hayley Navarro raised funds and awareness for Abigail’s Footsteps by providing handwritten letters from Father Christmas and said, “I’m creating handwritten and personalised letters from Santa, for a donation, raising enough to donate an Abi Cooling Cot in my baby Raphael’s name.”
Lauren Porter, member of the Thursday Hillbillies running group and regular supporter of Abigail’s Footsteps ran a 10km route. Lauren said, “This year we’ve chosen Abigail’s Footsteps, we have a midwife in the group, so this baby loss charity is close to not only their hearts but many others in the group.”
In February Andy Purvis and Tim Cox (Oar Mighty Mates 2C) returned home from their epic fundraising challenge ‘World’s Toughest Row’ rowing the 3,200-miles from La Gomera to Antigua.
Alyssa said, “When Andy took on the world’s toughest row in Rebecca’s memory, it meant more than words could ever express. For us, as Rebecca’s parents, it was more than a fundraiser—it was a powerful reminder that our little girl was remembered, that her name was still spoken, and that her short life had left a lasting impact. Andy didn’t just raise money; he honoured Rebecca in the most meaningful way—by supporting other families facing the heartbreak of baby loss. Through his dedication and the work of Abigail’s Footsteps, more families will receive the compassionate care they need and have the chance to create precious memories with their baby, made possible by the donation of an Abi Cooling Cot. We are forever grateful to Oar Mighty Mates.”
Andy Purvis received 2 awards on behalf of ‘Oar Mighty Mates 2C’ at the Kent Mental Health and Wellbeing Awards for their incredible fundraising for Abigail’s Footsteps in 2025.
Andy said, “We are proud to be supporting Abigail’s Footsteps and their amazing work.”
Alyssa Ely-Cook, Abigail’s Footsteps Bereavement Donation Co-Ordinator visited Princess Anne Hospital in Southampton for a very special cot handover with her husband Michael and Andy Purvis from ‘Oar Mighty Mates.’
Andy said “Tim and I rowed 3,200 miles across the Atlantic Ocean in 2024 to make a difference and to enable us to achieve something special. As part of our journey, we were honoured to be able to raise much needed funds for Abigail’s Footsteps and to be able to support a long overdue Abi cooling cot in memory of Rebecca Ely-Cook. We are delighted that a cot will be installed at the Princes Anne Hospital in Southampton in memory of Rebecca and to ensure her name is not forgotten.”
Lesley Cavill from the Kent & Sussex Crematorium, presented Vice President Cheryl Baker with a cheque for £12,500 donated from the The Institute of Cemetery & Crematorium Management.
We were truly grateful for this which was used towards sustaining our counselling programme. Abigails collaborated with two wonderful local charities, Worst Girl Gang Ever and Willows Rainbow Box, to create a truly meaningful baby loss art exhibition, ‘We Remember’. Collaboratively we asked our families and supporters to design and craft art pieces, to display during a 2 week exhibition at the Arts Café in Gravesend. Afterwards, the crochet wings were donated to Thames View Crematorium, where they now serve as a comforting and beautiful tribute for baby loss families.
The newly refurbished ‘Blossom Room’ at Darent Valley Hospital was opened by Tom and Jayne Gower, Hannah Pyner and Roger Francis and Lesley Howes from Ebbsfleet Lions.
Sharon Hurst, Specialist Bereavement Midwife, Darent Valley Hospital said, “Darent Valley Hospital Maternity Unit is proud to announce the opening of our Blossom Room, a dedicated space for families navigating the difficult journey of pregnancy loss and bereavement. The refurbishment of the room, generously funded by Abigails Footsteps and donations from the bereaved families they support will provide compassion during a time of profound grief. The Blossom Room is a safe space that offers a peaceful haven for the journey ahead. Our goal is to ensure that no one has to face this journey alone, and that every woman and her family has the support and space they deserve during such a difficult time. We are so grateful to Abigails Footsteps for making this room a reality.”
Our biggest and greatest fundraising event of the year was, without a doubt, the London Landmarks Half Marathon.
This remarkable event brought together a dedicated team of 53 runners, who navigated the iconic route through the heart of the capital. Abigail Bear made an appearance during the mascot dash, which is always a great start to the fun of the day. Thanks to the tireless efforts of our runners and the extraordinary generosity of their sponsors, we were able to raise just under £30,000.
Our very own, Becky Hopkins, Fundraising and Events Manager ran the London Marathon this year, alongside Sadie Day, Lauren Porter, Angela Beckingham and Lindsay Garvey – collectively raising over £10,000!
Becky said “As someone who’s never seen themselves as a runner, getting to 28k in training for the London Marathon has been an emotional journey – challenging, but surprisingly grounding. Running has become a time for reflection, and I’ll be carrying the stories of so many families we’ve supported, their beautiful babies and the amazing midwives and healthcare professionals who do so much. It’s a privilege to be running for the charity I work for, alongside four incredible women. I may be a plodder, but I’ll get there, powered by love, purpose, and the hope of raising enough to open our very own counselling room. Every step is for something bigger. Here’s to Team Abigail’s, and to making every mile count.”
Team Abigail’s had the wonderful opportunity to attend a charity football match at Charlton Athletic FC as the official shirt sponsor for the Marlborough Reds. The event was made possible thanks to the generous support and funding provided by Abigail’s supporter, John Bull. Abigail’s Footsteps received a share of funds raised on the day, an impressive £1,250. These vital funds will be directed towards Abigail’s Bereavement Training. Everyone involved was proud to see Abigail’s name prominently displayed on the team shirts, further raising awareness for the charity’s important work.
We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to the Masonic Charitable Foundation for approving a Festival Fund grant of £1,125, following a nomination submitted by the Provincial Grand Lodge of East Kent to benefit Abigail’s Footsteps.
Nine members of Team Abigail’s took part in one of the UK’s most prestigious and well-established cycling events, embarking on the impressive 55-mile journey from bustling London to the picturesque Brighton seafront.
Each cyclist was motivated not only by the physical demands of the event but also by a shared commitment to a meaningful cause. Their collective efforts culminated in raising £5,500, a testament to their hard work and the generosity of their supporters. Team Abigail’s journey from London to Brighton will be remembered as a day of triumph, friendship, making a positive impact, and inspiring others to take on new challenges in the future.
Heartfelt Heroes Awards
In an celebration of generosity and dedication, Abigail’s Footsteps hosted its inaugural Heartfelt Heroes Awards evening at the Corn Exchange in Rochester. With radio presenter and journalist Rob Smith and charity Ambassador Nicola Everett leading the event, and Vice President Cheryl Baker in attendance, we honoured our remarkable supporters who have gone above and beyond in their fundraising efforts. During the evening for the Top Fundraiser for Events & Challenges, the Top Fundraiser for Abi Cooling Cots, the Corporate Champion , the Community Hero, the Innovative Fundraiser and for Outstanding Contribution were presented.
Winners included Andy and Tim from Oar Mighty Mates, Holly & Lee Gisby, Sophie Burke from Synapri, Keeley Lengthorn and Yates Boxing Club, John Christie and Tom & Jayne Gower.
These awards recognise the exceptional commitment and creativity of individuals and organisations whose efforts continue to make a lasting difference to families supported by Abigail’s Footsteps.
Thank you to our sponsors for the evening who made this possible; MEMS Power Generation, Kalikas Armour, MS Webb, WPA Healthcare and St Phillips Chambers.
In 2025 we proudly delivered 84 Abi cooling cots
The Jessop Wing in memory of George
Leicester Royal Infirmary, Neonatal Unit in memory of Jacob
Queen Charlotte’s Hospital in memory of Tom
St George’s University Hospitals, Neonatal unit Tooting in memory of Tom
Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust in memory of Siaan Kaur
Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust in memory of Alan
Luton & Dunstable Hospital Trust in memory of Freyja & William
University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire in memory of Cruz
Royal Cornwall Hospital NHS Trust in memory of Hamish
Southend University Hospital in memory of George Chalie
Wrexham Maelor Hospital in memory of Oscar, Millie, Clementine, Chester, Vinnie & Phoenix
Royal United Hospital Bath in memory of Oscar, Millie, Clementine, Chester, Vinnie & Phoenix
St Marys Hospital, London in memory of Nakoa
Two cots to Russells Hall Hospital in memory of Albie-Jo Maritza
Co-op Funeralcare in Barrow-in-Furness in memory of Cruz
Hinchingbrooke Hospital in memory of Albie James
Hull Women and Children’s Hospital in memory of Mariam Amelle
Lister Hospital in memory of Lottie
John Radcliffe Hospital in memory of Lottie
University Hospital Wishaw in memory of Freddie
Southmead Hospital in memory of Wynter
Stoke Mandeville Hospital in memory of Raphael
Milton Keynes Hospital in memory of Freddie
Craigavon Hospital in memory of Teddy
Pinderfields General Hospital in memory of Cain
Queen Charlotte and Chelsea Hospital in memory of Bob, Pam and Baby John
St James’ University Hospital Leeds in memory of Skyler
St Mary’s Hospital London in memory of George and Dorothy
Basildon Hospital in memory of Albie
Kingsmill Hospital in memory of Angus
Wrexham Maelor Hospital in memory of Zachariah
Leeds General Infirmary in memory of Ocean
Chesterfield Royal Hospital in memory of Aroe Bari and Acre Bowe
Royal Devon University Hospital in memory of Ottilie
Leeds General Infirmary in memory of Logan
Five cots delivered to Nepean Public Hospital, Sydney, Australia
Worcester Royal Hospital in memory of Jesse
Kingston Hospital in memory of Meila
Scunthorpe General Hospital in memory of Myla
Little Bridge House Children’s Hospice South West in memory of Rosie
High Heaton Co-Op Funeral in memory of Jackson
Broomfield Hospital in memory of Albie
Queen Alexandra Hospital in memory of Olivia-Rose
Watford General Hospital in memory of Albie
Kings Mill Hospital in memory of Dorothy
The York Hospital in memory of Henrie
Royal Cornwall Hospital in memory of Callie
John Weir Funeral Directors in memory of Nellie and Nancie
Royal Derby Hospital in memory of Cian
William Harvey Hospital in memory of Carter
Leicester General Hospital in memory of Marigold
Nobles Hospital in memory of Myla
Antrim Area Hospital in memory of Gus
Queens Hospital Burton in memory of Finn
Liverpool Women’s Hospital in memory Idris
St. Mary’s Hospital in memory of Miriam, Judah and Susie
Homerton Hospital in memory of Siaan
Kingsmill Hospital in memory of Angus
Bedford Hospital in memory of Lois
North Manchester Hospital in memory Jude
University Hospital of North Midlands, Royal Stoke University Hospital in memory of Jude
Kettering General Hospital in memory of Neva
Royal Preston Hospital in memory of Sophia
Broomfield Hospital in memory of Willow
Arrowe Hospital in memory of Jude
Princess Anne Hospital in memory of Rebecca
Furness General Hospital in memory of Romeo
Co-Op Funeralcare Kendal in memory of Romeo
Leighton Hospital in memory of Jude
Whittington Hospital in memory of Hamish
Leicester Royal Infirmary in memory of Seren
Macclesfield District General Hospital in memory of Leo & Issac
North Middlesex University Hospital in memory of Nakoa
Dumfries & Galloway Royal Infirmary in memory of Finley
The Jessop Wing in memory of Elsie Great Western Hospital, Swindon in memory of Leo
Twyman and Holmes in memory of Emmaline
Thank you to everyone who has donated Abi Cooling Cots…
Abigail’s Angels Bereavement Training Programme
In 2025, Bereavement Training International delivered a total of 39 Abigail’s Footsteps funded training sessions, significantly contributing to the professional development of those working in bereavement care. Of these sessions, 24 were conducted in person, including 9 sessions tailored specifically for student midwives at universities across the country, while the remaining 15 sessions were delivered online to maximise accessibility and reach.
Over the course of the year, the training reached 1,233 individuals, averaging 32 attendees per session. This achievement reflects our ongoing commitment to equipping professionals with the necessary skills and sensitivity to support bereaved families. Since the inception of our partnership with Bereavement Training International in 2020, we have provided funded training to over 6,000 professionals nationwide.
“I wanted to express our thanks for all your hard work with supporting our students learning on bereavement care. The feedback from the students has been fantastic! We are so grateful for your time and the funding from Abigail’s Footsteps that made the two days possible! So many students have contacted me today to say that they have changed their whole idea for their upcoming assignments thanks to your sessions.” Senior lecturer, Bedfordshire University.
In June, we delivered a bereavement training day, which was generously hosted by RWK Goodman. We are especially grateful to our dedicated Ambassador, Keeley Lengthorn, whose hard work and commitment made the event possible. The training was very well attended, with 40 healthcare professionals from a variety of backgrounds joining us to expand their knowledge and skills in supporting those experiencing loss. We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who made the day such a success.
Abigail’s Specialist Baby Loss Counselling Programme
Abigail’s Footsteps Specialist Baby Loss Counselling offers dedicated support to families navigating the profound grief of baby loss. Demonstrating a steadfast commitment to the community, the service has delivered over 1,000 hours of professional counselling this year alone across five face-to-face locations throughout Kent and the surrounding counties. This extensive reach ensures that compassionate, expert help is accessible to those in need, fostering hope and healing during the most difficult times.
We are delighted to announce that Abigail’s Footsteps’ PEACE SESSIONS (Providing Emotional Assistance and Counselling for Expectant Parents) were recognised at the Kent Mental Wellbeing Awards. This prestigious accolade celebrates the outstanding contribution our service has made supporting parents who have accessed our specialist baby loss counselling. Launched this year, PEACE SESSIONS were made possible thanks to the generous support from Landsec Futures Community Grants. The sessions offer vital emotional assistance and tailored counselling for expectant parents coping with the unique challenges of baby loss, helping them to navigate their journey with compassion and care. Our dedicated counsellors, Naomi and Jenny, were honoured to accept the award on behalf of the entire team. Their expertise and empathy have provided much-needed comfort and guidance to those who need it most, and this award is a testament to their unwavering commitment.
“The support we received from Abigail’s counselling service has been essential for us to cope with the loss of our baby but even more important during our rainbow pregnancy. The counselling is very specialist and like no other counselling service, focusing on strategies and tools to manage worries and anxieties that pop up during pregnancy, while fully acknowledging that these exist but that they don’t have to lead to a downward spiral. We’re now the parents of our happy rainbow boy and couldn’t be more grateful to Naomi and the team.” Bereaved parents, Mike and Christin.
The new Abigail’s Footsteps office and dedicated counselling room were officially opened by The Lady Colgrain, His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Kent. The ribbon was cut during an intimate afternoon event, where the new space was blessed by The Very Reverend Dr Philip Hesketh, Dean of Rochester Cathedral.
Lady Colgrain said: “I am honoured to have been asked to officially open Abigail’s Footsteps’ new counselling room. The support that the team has given over the past 15 years to parents and families who suffer the grief of a baby’s loss is incalculable. Over the years, qualified counsellors have offered guidance and understanding to help parents come to terms with their grief and augmented the work of the NHS by providing excellent bereavement care training and support.”
The event was attended by Trustees, local supporters, healthcare professionals, and families who have been supported by the charity. The new counselling room will offer a safe, peaceful environment for one-to-one grief support, led by trained bereavement counsellors.
Annual Golf Day
We hosted our Annual Charity Golf Day at Rochester and Cobham Golf Club, on Thursday 3rd July, where 92 enthusiastic golfers joined us for a truly memorable occasion. Thanks to the tremendous generosity and spirit of all involved, we successfully raised over £11,000 in support of our cause.
We would like to extend our heartfelt appreciation to everyone who took part, as well as to our valued corporate sponsors; Portal Security, MEMS, Kent Car Hire, and Hugh Anthony Interiors.
Malling Freemason’s finished their 100-mile charity walk with an afternoon tea at the Lodge in West Malling. John Stout said, “As the current Master of Malling Abbey Lodge, it is in my gift to pick a charity for which the lodge will raise money within my year. I wanted a small, locally based charity where the money we raise could make a difference.”
Abi Cooling Cots play a crucial role in providing grieving families with precious time to say goodbye to their baby and offering comfort during the most difficult of moments. We are immensely proud to announce the delivery of five Abi cooling cots to Australia, marking a significant milestone in Abigail’s Footsteps international outreach. By extending this vital support across continents, we reaffirm our commitment to helping families everywhere.
The Medway Ladies Darts League supported us and presented the team with a cheque for £1010. Abigail’s Ambassador, Tom Gower played in the tournament and received the cheque with his wife Jayne and Becky Hopkins on behalf of Abigail’s Footsteps. Sarah, League Secretary said, “What a great three weeks, Medway Ladies Dart League has had raising money for a very worthy charity.”
Baby Loss Conference for Student Midwives
We welcomed over 150 student midwives to our Baby Loss conference ‘Learning to feel more confident supporting baby loss families’ in London.
The conference was expertly hosted by Abigail’s Vice Presidents, ITV News Presenter Julie Etchingham and Journalist and Presenter, Rob Smith.
A student Midwife from Darent Valley Hospital, said, “It was an amazing conference, I loved it. The speakers were great and the whole day was so well organised.”
During the day attendees heard from a wide range of speakers including; Abigail’s founder David Ward MBE, Director of Midwifery Rosemary Idiaghe parent Lewis Triplow, Bereavement Facilitator Paula Abramson, Principal Lecturer Radica Hardyal, Newly qualified midwife Michelle Harris, Specialist Bereavement Midwife Anne Durell, Mortuary Manager Tracey Biggs, Funeral Director Clare Shortall-Emery and Head of Midwifery Hannah Horne.
Thank you to Willis Towers Watson for hosting this very important event.
Families and supporters gathered in Rochester Cathedral for this year’s Wave of Light Service united in remembrance and reflection. In a touching addition to the service, a Memory Tree, generously donated in loving memory of baby Rapheal, provided a poignant focal point for families to hang stars with their personal messages. The addition deepened the sense of community and offered a meaningful space for those honouring the lives of babies who were lost too soon.
21 runners from Team Abigail’s took on the Royal Parks Half Marathon, our biggest team to date. They were joined by midwife Sadie from Darent Valley Hospital – her second half marathon in support of Abigail’s this year. Greg Webb from MS Webb, raised over £4,000 and the team collectively raised £13,798.
The opening fixture of the Kent FA Recreational Cup saw Abigail’s Athletic face off against Athletic Melrose in what proved to be a highly entertaining match. Abigail’s Athletic captained by Trustee Jack Jeffery showcased their skill and determination throughout the game, securing an impressive 5–2 victory over their opponents. Follow @abigailsathletic on Instagram for the latest matches and results.
Annual Gala
Abigail’s Annual Gala was a truly memorable evening, bringing together guests united by a passion for making a difference. Guests enjoyed a three-course meal, and music from a seven-piece band. The atmosphere was electric, as supporters rallied together to raise both vital funds and much-needed awareness for the charity. Thanks to the remarkable kindness and enthusiasm of everyone present, the event achieved an extraordinary milestone – raising over £30,000! This spectacular success stands as a testament to the unwavering commitment of our incredible community and promises lasting impact for families in need.
Thank you to our sponsors for the evening; MS Webb, The Bond Group, Reflect Digital, Mark McAllister, Pantera Carpentry and Fleet Luxury.
We are excited to announce that we have been chosen by Rochester and Cobham Golf Club, as their charity of the year by Lee Atkinson (Club Captain) and Kate Gray (Lady Captain).
Lee and Kate said, “We will not just be supporting our club with golf and events during our captaincy year, but also fundraising for our chosen charity, Abigail’s Footsteps.”
David Ward, MBE and Co-Founder, Abigail’s Footsteps said, “Jo and I were very proud to join Kate Gray and Lee Atkinson at Rochester and Cobham Golf Club to celebrate their appointments as captains. We are deeply honoured that they have chosen Abigail’s Footsteps as their charity of the year. A heartfelt thank you to everyone at the club for your incredible support, together, we can make a real difference for bereaved families.”
Abigail’s Footsteps was chosen to receive donations from the Give a Gift campaign, in partnership with KMFM. This meant that thanks to the overwhelming generosity of our local community and the kindness of those involved in the campaign, we were able to distribute special Christmas gifts to families we support.
We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has supported the Give a Gift campaign and to KMFM for making this possible. Your thoughtfulness means so much to the families we help, and it’s gestures like these that make a real difference.
In 2025 Abigail’s Footsteps:
- Added a member of staff to the team and one more trustee to the board
- Moved to our new offices in Medway City Estate
- Won ‘Kent Counsellor of the Year’ at the Kent Mental Health & Wellbeing Awards
- Opened a dedicated counselling room at our Medway offices
- Delivered 1,000 hours of counselling to bereaved families
- Won ‘Kent Fundraiser of the Year’ at the Kent Mental Health & Wellbeing Awards
- Delivered training to 1,289 healthcare professionals
- Distributed 84 Abi Cooling Cots across the UK, including 5 to Australia
There are many people we would like to thank for their support, hard work and dedication
Our Patron, Vice Presidents and Trustees for giving their time, guidance and support. Our fundraisers, supporters and volunteers for never failing to amaze and humble us with their extraordinary determination, devotion and commitment.
Finally, to our sponsors and donors, for their continued goodwill, generosity of spirit, time and resources. Our sincerest gratitude to all of you for everything you do to make what we do possible.